United Kingdom
NanoSIMS Analysis of Hydrogen and Deuterium in Metallic Alloys: Artefacts and Best Practice
Apr 2021
Publication
Hydrogen embrittlement can cause catastrophic failure of high strength alloys yet determining localised hydrogen in the microstructure is analytically challenging. NanoSIMS is one of the few techniques that can map hydrogen and deuterium in metal samples at microstructurally relevant length scales. Therefore it is essential to understand the artefacts and determine the optimum methodology for its reliable detection. An experimental methodology/protocol for NanoSIMS analysis of deuterium (as a proxy for hydrogen) has been established uncovering unreported artefacts and a new approach is presented to minimise these artefacts in mapping hydrogen and deuterium in alloys. This method was used to map deuterium distributions in electrochemically charged austenitic stainless steel and precipitation hardened nickel-based alloys. Residual deuterium contamination was detected in the analysis chamber as a result of deuterium outgassing from the samples and the impact of this deuterium contamination was assessed by a series of NanoSIMS experiments. A new analysis protocol was developed that involves mapping deuterium in the passive oxide layer thus mitigating beam damage effects that may prevent the detection of localised deuterium signals when the surface is highly deuterated.
Investigation into the Cross-sensitivity of Domestic Carbon Monoxide Alarms to Hydrogen
Sep 2021
Publication
Preliminary research suggests domestic carbon monoxide detectors with an electrochemical sensor are approximately 10 -20% sensitive to hydrogen atmospheres in their factory configuration. That is the display on a carbon monoxide detector would give a carbon monoxide reading of approximately 10-20% of the concentration of hydrogen it is exposed to. Current British standards require detectors to sound an alarm within three minutes when subjected to a continuous concentration of ≥ 300 ppm CO. This would equate to a concentration of 1500-3000 ppm hydrogen in air or approximately 3.75 – 7% %LEL. The current evacuation criteria for a natural gas leak in a domestic property is 20 %LEL indicating that standard carbon monoxide detectors could be used as cheap and reliable early warning systems for hydrogen leaks. Given the wide use of carbon monoxide detectors and the affordability of the devices the use of carbon monoxide detectors for hydrogen detection is of particular interest as the UK drives towards energy decarbonisation. Experiments to determine the exact sensitivity of a range of the most common domestic carbon monoxide detectors have been completed by DNV Spadeadam Research & Testing. Determining the effects of repeated exposure to varying concentrations of hydrogen in air on the sensitivity of electrochemical sensors allows recommendations to be made on their adoption as hydrogen detectors. Changing the catalysts used within the electrochemical cell would improve the sensitivity to hydrogen however simply calibrating the sensor to report a concentration of hydrogen rather than carbon monoxide would represent no additional costs to manufacturers. Having determined the suitability of such sensors at an early stage; the technology can then be linked with other technological developments required for the change to hydrogen for domestic heating (e.g. change in metering equipment and appliances). This report finds that from five simple and widely available carbon monoxide detectors the lowest sensitivity to hydrogen measured at the concentration required to sound an alarm within three minutes was approximately 10%. It was also discovered that as the hydrogen concentration was increased over the range tested the sensitivity to hydrogen also increased. It is proposed that coupling these devices with other elements of the domestic gas system would allow actions such as remote meter isolation or automatic warning signals sent to response services would provide a reliable and inherently safe system for protecting occupants as gas networks transition to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. In this respect it is noted that wireless linking of smoke and heat detectors for domestic application is already widely available in low-cost devices. This could be extended to CO detectors adapted for hydrogen use.
Hydrogen Power Focus Shifts from Cars to Heavy Vehicles
Oct 2020
Publication
Hydrogen has been hailed as a promising energy carrier for decades. But compared to the thriving success of hybrid and plug-in electric cars the prospects for cars powered by hydrogen fuel cells have recently diminished mostly due to challenges in bringing down the costs of fuel cells and developing a broad network of fuelling stations.<br/>Beginning in March 2020 three major auto manufacturers—Daimler AG] Volkswagen and General Motors (GM)]—followed the April 2019 move by Honda to back out of the hydrogen-powered passenger car market. Instead these companies and others are looking to develop the technology as an emission-free solution to power heavy commercial and military vehicles with refuelling taking place at centralized locations.
Hydrogen/Manganese Hybrid Redox Flow Battery
Dec 2018
Publication
Electrochemical energy storage is a key enabling technology for further integration of renewables sources. Redox flow batteries(RFBs) are promising candidates for such applications as a result of their durability efficiency and fast response. However deployment of existing RFBs is hindered by the relatively high cost of the (typically vanadium-based) electrolyte. Manganese is an earth-abundant and inexpensive element that is widely used in disposable alkaline batteries. However it has hitherto been little explored for RFBs due to the instability of Mn(III) leading to precipitation of MnO2 via a disproportionation reaction. Here we show that by combining the facile hydrogen negative electrode reaction with electrolytes that suppress Mn(III) disproportionation it is possible to construct a hydrogen/manganese hybrid RFB with high round trip energy efficiency (82%) and high power and energy density (1410 mW cm−2 33 Wh l−1 ) at an estimated 70% cost reduction compared to vanadium redox flow batteries.
Fuel Cell Power Systems for Maritime Applications: Progress and Perspectives
Jan 2021
Publication
Fuel cells as clean power sources are very attractive for the maritime sector which is committed to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas and atmospheric pollutant emissions from ships. This paper presents a technological review on fuel cell power systems for maritime applications from the past two decades. The available fuels including hydrogen ammonia renewable methane and methanol for fuel cells under the context of sustainable maritime transportation and their pre-processing technologies are analyzed. Proton exchange membrane molten carbonate and solid oxide fuel cells are found to be the most promising options for maritime applications once energy efficiency power capacity and sensitivity to fuel impurities are considered. The types layouts and characteristics of fuel cell modules are summarized based on the existing applications in particular industrial or residential sectors. The various research and demonstration projects of fuel cell power systems in the maritime industry are reviewed and the challenges with regard to power capacity safety reliability durability operability and costs are analyzed. Currently power capacity costs and lifetime of the fuel cell stack are the primary barriers. Coupling with batteries modularization mass production and optimized operating and control strategies are all important pathways to improve the performance of fuel cell power systems.
Hy4Heat Safety Assessment: Conclusions Report (Incorporating Quantitative Risk Assessment) - Work Package 7
May 2021
Publication
The Hy4Heat Safety Assessment has focused on assessing the safe use of hydrogen gas in certain types of domestic properties and buildings. The summary reports (the Precis and the Safety Assessment Conclusions Report) bring together all the findings of the work and should be looked to for context by all readers. The technical reports should be read in conjunction with the summary reports. While the summary reports are made as accessible as possible for general readers the technical reports may be most accessible for readers with a degree of technical subject matter understanding. All of the safety assessment reports have now been reviewed by the HSE.<br/><br/>A comparative risk assessment of natural gas versus hydrogen gas including a quantitative risk assessment; and identification of control measures to reduce risk and manage hydrogen gas safety for a community demonstration.
Modelling of Boil‐Off and Sloshing Relevant to Future Liquid Hydrogen Carriers
Mar 2022
Publication
This study presents an approach for estimating fuel boil‐off behaviour in cryogenic energy carrier ships such as future liquid hydrogen (LH2) carriers. By relying on thermodynamic model‐ ling and empirical formulas for ship motion and propulsion the approach can be used to investigate boil‐off as a function of tank properties weather conditions and operating velocities during a laden voyage. The model is first calibrated against data from a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier and is consequently used to investigate various design configurations of an LH2 ship. Results indicate that an LH2 ship with the same tank volume and glass wool insulation thickness as a conventional LNG carrier stores 40% of the fuel energy and is characterised by a boil‐off rate nine times higher and twice as sensitive to sloshing. Adding a reliquefaction unit can reduce the LH2 fuel depletion rate by at least 38.7% but can increase its variability regarding velocity and weather conditions. In calm weather LH2 boil‐off rates can only meet LNG carrier standards by utilising at least 6.6 times the insulation thickness. By adopting fuel cell propulsion in an LH2 ship a 1.1% increase in fuel delivery is expected. An LH2 ship with fuel cells and reliquefaction is required to be at least 1.7 times larger than an existing LNG carrierto deliverthe same energy. Further comparison of alternative scenarios indicates that LH2 carriers necessitate significant redesigns if LNG carrier standards are desired. The present approach can assist future feasibility studies featuring other vessels and propulsion technologies and can be seen as an extendable framework that can predict boil‐off in real‐time.
Preliminary Analysis of Compression System Integrated Heat Management Concepts Using LH2-Based Parametric Gas Turbine Model
Apr 2021
Publication
The investigation of the various heat management concepts using LH2 requires the development of a modeling environment coupling the cryogenic hydrogen fuel system with turbofan performance. This paper presents a numerical framework to model hydrogen-fueled gas turbine engines with a dedicated heat-management system complemented by an introductory analysis of the impact of using LH2 to precool and intercool in the compression system. The propulsion installations comprise Brayton cycle-based turbofans and first assessments are made on how to use the hydrogen as a heat sink integrated into the compression system. Conceptual tubular compact heat exchanger designs are explored to either precool or intercool the compression system and preheat the fuel to improve the installed performance of the propulsion cycles. The precooler and the intercooler show up to 0.3% improved specific fuel consumption for heat exchanger effectiveness in the range 0.5–0.6 but higher effectiveness designs incur disproportionately higher pressure losses that cancel-out the benefits.
Methodologies for Representing the Road Transport Sector in Energy System Models
Dec 2013
Publication
Energy system models are often used to assess the potential role of hydrogen and electric powertrains for reducing transport CO2 emissions in the future. In this paper we review how different energy system models have represented both vehicles and fuel infrastructure in the past and we provide guidelines for their representation in the future. In particular we identify three key modelling decisions: the degree of car market segmentation the imposition of market share constraints and the use of lumpy investments to represent infrastructure. We examine each of these decisions in a case study using the UK MARKAL model. While disaggregating the car market principally affects only the transition rate to the optimum mix of technologies market share constraints can greatly change the optimum mix so should be chosen carefully. In contrast modelling infrastructure using lumpy investments has little impact on the model results. We identify the development of new methodologies to represent the impact of behavioural change on transport demand as a key challenge for improving energy system models in the future.
Climate Change Committee: Progress in Reducing Emissions, 2022 Report to Parliament
Jun 2022
Publication
This statutory report provides a comprehensive overview of the UK Government’s progress to date in reducing emissions. It is accompanied by a new Monitoring Framework which details the CCC’s updated approach to tracking real-world progress through a host of new indicators.<br/>This is a pivotal point in the UK’s journey to Net Zero. The UK is one of the few countries with emissions targets in line with the long-term temperature goal of the Paris Agreement. Policy ambition has moved substantially with the publication of the UK’s Net Zero Strategy. Now is the time to deliver the promised action.
Conversion of the UK Gas System to Transport Hydrogen
May 2013
Publication
One option to decarbonise residential heat in the UK is to convert the existing natural gas networks to deliver hydrogen. We review the technical feasibility of this option using semistructured interviews underpinned by a literature review and we assess the potential economic benefits using the UK MARKAL energy systems model. We conclude that hydrogen can be transported safely in the low-pressure pipes but we identify concerns over the reduced capacity of the system and the much lower linepack storage compared to natural gas. New hydrogen meters and sensors would have to be fitted to every building in a hydrogen conversion program and appliances would have to be converted unless the government was to legislate to make them hydrogen-ready in advance. Converting the gas networks to hydrogen is a lower-cost residential decarbonisation pathway for the UK than those identified previously. The cost-optimal share of hydrogen is sensitive to the conversion cost and to variations in the capital costs of heat pumps and micro-CHP fuel cells. With such small cost differentials between technologies the decision to convert the networks will also depend on non-economic factors including the relative performance of technologies and the willingness of the government to organise a conversion program.
Hydrogen Generation on Orkney: Integrating Established Risk Management Best Practice to Emerging Clean Energy Sector
Sep 2021
Publication
The European Marine Energy Centre’s (EMEC) ITEG project (Integrating Tidal Energy into the European Grid) funded by Interreg NWE combines a tidal energy and hydrogen production solution to address grid constraints on the island of Eday in Orkney. The project will install a 0.5MW electrolyser at EMEC’s existing hydrogen production plant. EMEC and Risktec collaboratively applied best practice risk assessment and management techniques to assess and manage hydrogen safety. Hazard identification (HAZID) workshops were conducted collaboratively with design engineers through which a comprehensive hazard register was developed. Risktec applied bowtie analysis to each major accident hazard identified from the hazard register via virtual workshop with design engineers. The bowties promoted a structured review of each hazard’s threat and consequence identifying and reviewing the controls in place against good practice standards. The process revealed some recommendations for further improvement and risk reduction exemplifying a systematic management of risks associated with hydrogen hazards to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP). Hardware based barriers preventing or mitigating loss of control of these hazards were logged as safety critical elements (SCE) and procedural barriers as safety critical activities (SCA). To ensure that all SCEs and SCAs identified through the risk assessment process are managed throughout the facility’s operational lifetime a safety management system is created giving assurance of overall safety management system continued effectiveness. The process enables the demonstration that design risks are managed to ALARP during design and throughout operational lifetime. More importantly enabling ITEG to progress to construction and operation in 2021.
Characterisation, Dispersion and Electrostatic Hazards of Liquid Hydrogen for the PRESLHY Project
Sep 2021
Publication
Liquid hydrogen has the potential to form part of the energy strategy in the future due to the need to decarbonise and replace fossil fuels and therefore could see widespread use. Adoption of LH2 means that the associated hazards need to be understood and managed. In recognition of this the European Union Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking co-funded project PRESLHY undertook prenormative research for the safe use of cryogenic liquid hydrogen in non-industrial settings. Several key scenarios were identified as knowledge gaps and both theoretical and experimental studies were conducted to provide insight into these scenarios. This included experiments studying the evolution/dispersion of a hydrogen cloud following a liquid release and the generation of electrostatic charges in hydrogen plumes and pipework each of which are described and discussed. In addition assessment of the physical phase of the hydrogen flow within the pipework (i.e. liquid gas or two phase) was investigated. The objectives experimental set up and result summary are provided. Data generated from these experiments is to be used to generate and validate theoretical models and ultimately contribute to the development of regulations codes and standards for the storage handling and use of liquid hydrogen.
UK Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard: Guidance on the Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sustainability Criteria
Apr 2022
Publication
The Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard sets a maximum threshold for the amount of greenhouse gas emissions allowed in the production process for hydrogen to be considered ‘low carbon hydrogen’. Compliance with the standard will help ensure new low carbon hydrogen production makes a direct contribution to our carbon reduction targets.
This guidance sets out the methodology for calculating the emissions associated with hydrogen production and the steps producers should take to prove that the hydrogen they produce is compliant with the standard.
It is for use by hydrogen producers seeking support from government schemes and policies that have adopted the standard.
The standard requires hydrogen producers to:
This guidance sets out the methodology for calculating the emissions associated with hydrogen production and the steps producers should take to prove that the hydrogen they produce is compliant with the standard.
It is for use by hydrogen producers seeking support from government schemes and policies that have adopted the standard.
The standard requires hydrogen producers to:
- meet a GHG emissions intensity of 20g CO2e/MJLHV of produced hydrogen or less for the hydrogen to be considered low carbon
- calculate their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions up to the ‘point of production’
- set out a risk mitigation plan for fugitive hydrogen emissions
- meet additional requirements for the use of biogenic inputs where relevant and as appropriate for the feedstock source and classification
Comparative Sustainability Study of Energy Storage Technologies Using Data Envelopment Analysis
Mar 2022
Publication
The transition to energy systems with a high share of renewable energy depends on the availability of technologies that can connect the physical distances or bridge the time differences between the energy supply and demand points. This study focuses on energy storage technologies due to their expected role in liberating the energy sector from fossil fuels and facilitating the penetration of intermittent renewable sources. The performance of 27 energy storage alternatives is compared considering sustainability aspects by means of data envelopment analysis. To this end storage alternatives are first classified into two clusters: fast-response and long-term. The levelized cost of energy energy and water consumption global warming potential and employment are common indicators considered for both clusters while energy density is used only for fast-response technologies where it plays a key role in technology selection. Flywheel reveals the highest efficiency between all the fast-response technologies while green ammonia powered with solar energy ranks first for long-term energy storage. An uncertainty analysis is incorporated to discuss the reliability of the results. Overall results obtained and guidelines provided can be helpful for both decision-making and research and development purposes. For the former we identify the most appealing energy storage options to be promoted while for the latter we report quantitative improvement targets that would make inefficient technologies competitive if attained. This contribution paves the way for more comprehensive studies in the context of energy storage by presenting a powerful framework for comparing options according to multiple sustainability indicators.
Optimising Air Quality Co-benefits in a Hydrogen Economy: A Case for Hydrogen-specific Standards for NOx Emissions
Jun 2021
Publication
A global transition to hydrogen fuel offers major opportunities to decarbonise a range of different energyintensive sectors from large-scale electricity generation through to heating in homes. Hydrogen can be deployed as an energy source in two distinct ways in electrochemical fuel cells and via combustion. Combustion seems likely to be a major pathway given that it requires only incremental technological change. The use of hydrogen is not however without side-effects and the widely claimed benefit that only water is released as a by-product is only accurate when it is used in fuel cells. The burning of hydrogen can lead to the thermal formation of nitrogen oxides (NOx – the sum of NO + NO2) via a mechanism that also applies to the combustion of fossil fuels. NO2 is a key air pollutant that is harmful in its own right and is a precursor to other pollutants of concern such as fine particulate matter and ozone. Minimising NOx as a by-product from hydrogen boilers and engines is possible through control of combustion conditions but this can lead to reduced power output and performance. After-treatment and removal of NOx is possible but this increases cost and complexity in appliances. Combustion applications therefore require optimisation and potentially lower hydrogen-specific emissions standards if the greatest air quality benefits are to derive from a growth in hydrogen use
Thermodynamic Performance and Creep Life Assessment Comparing Hydrogen- and Jet-Fueled Turbofan Aero Engine
Apr 2021
Publication
There is renewed interest in hydrogen as an alternative fuel for aero engines due to their perceived environmental and performance benefits compared to jet fuel. This paper presents a cycle thermal performance energy and creep life assessment of hydrogen compared with jet fuel using a turbofan aero engine. The turbofan cycle performance was simulated using a code developed by the authors that allows hydrogen and jet fuel to be selected as fuel input. The exergy assessment uses both conservations of energy and mass and the second law of thermodynamics to understand the impact of the fuels on the exergy destruction exergy efficiency waste factor ratio environmental effect factor and sustainability index for a turbofan aero engine. Finally the study looks at a top-level creep life assessment on the high-pressure turbine hot section influenced by the fuel heating values. This study shows performance (64% reduced fuel flow rate better SFC) and more extended blade life (15% increase) benefits using liquefied hydrogen fuel which corresponds with other literary work on the benefits of LH2 over jet fuel. This paper also highlights some drawbacks of hydrogen fuel based on previous research work and gives recommendations for future work aimed at maturing the hydrogen fuel concept in aviation.
HyDeploy Report: Summary of European Hydrogen Blending Projects
Jun 2018
Publication
Across Europe permitted blend levels of hydrogen blending into the gas grid are appreciably higher than that currently permitted in the UK up to 12% mol/mol compared with 0.1% mol/mol. Whilst there is some routine blending undertaking – typically power to gas applications three major projects have been undertaken to demonstrate operation of a gas distribution network at higher blend levels of hydrogen.<br/>A Dutch project was completed in 2011 which demonstrated successful operation into a network with new appliances at 20% mol/mol. A German project was completed in 2015 which demonstrated successful operation into an existing gas network with existing appliances at their permitted level of 10% mol/mol. In France an extensive programme is underway to inject hydrogen into a network at 20% mol/mol due to commence injection in 2018.<br/>Each of these projects undertook extensive pre-trial activities and operational data was collected during the Dutch and German trials. The programme of pre-trial work for the French project was particularly extensive and mirrored the work done by HyDeploy. This led to a permit being granted for the French project at 20% mol/mol with injection into the network imminent.<br/>The HyDeploy team has engaged with each of the project teams who have been very co-operative; this has enabled scientific sharing of best practice. In all cases the projects were successful. The participants in the Dutch project were particularly keen to have been able to undertake a similar trial to HyDeploy; a larger trial into existing appliances. However political changes in Holland have precluded that at this time such progress was not limited by technical findings from the work.<br/>A high level overview of the projects and the data provided is summarised in this report. More detailed information is referenced and covered in more detail where required in the appropriate individual topic reports supporting the Exemption.<br/>Click on supplements tab to view the other documents from this report
Reference Standard for Low Pressure Hydrogen Utilisation
May 2021
Publication
This standard has been created for the specific purposes of the Hy4Heat programme. The standard was commissioned in 2018 and this version was considered and approved by the relevant IGEM committees in May of 2020. This version of the standard was developed using the latest publicly available information at that time and may include some conservative requirements which further research may deem not necessary. The supplement will be updated regularly following the publication of new research into the application of hydrogen.
This Reference Standard aims to identify and discuss the principles required for the safety and integrity of Hydrogen installation and utilisation in premises.
This document intends to:
The standard is available to download through the IGEM website here.
This Reference Standard aims to identify and discuss the principles required for the safety and integrity of Hydrogen installation and utilisation in premises.
This document intends to:
- provide a point of reference for those requiring an understanding of the implications of using hydrogen as a distributed gas in properties
- detail the characteristics of Hydrogen
- detail the comparisons between hydrogen and Natural Gas (NG)
- discuss the safety implications of using hydrogen
- discuss the implications for materials when using hydrogen
- discuss the implications for the installation and use of using hydrogen in domestic & smaller commercial buildings.
The standard is available to download through the IGEM website here.
Review of IGEM/SR/25 for Use with Hydrogen
Jan 2021
Publication
This report presents the findings of the initial gap analysis and technical review of IGEM/SR/25 undertaken as a collaborative effort between HSE and DNV GL. The review is intended to help understand the steps which would be involved in updating the standard to include data appropriate for installations using H2 or an H2/NG blend. Furthermore the report highlights where additional research and updated data applicable to H2 installations is needed to enable development of an H2-specific supplement to the standard.<br/>A review of alternative approaches for area classification is presented. This review is aimed at determining whether existing standards or guidance provide methodologies which could be used as an alternative to IGEM/SR/25 for area classification of systems using either H2 or H2/NG blends. The review covers IGEM/SR/25 IGE/SR/23 EI15 BCGA guidance BS EN 60079:10:1 (including Quadvent) NFPA 497 API RP 505 and EIGA Doc. 121/14. Some of these are general like the British Standard BS EN 60079-10-1:2015 while others are industry specific like IGEM/SR/25 and EI15.<br/>Consideration is given to the methodology that each area classification approach presents for establishing the zone and zone size with particular focus on how factors such as ventilation and gas buoyancy are accounted for in the methods. The findings of the review indicate that none of the alternative approaches evaluated in the study provide an approach that is suitable for the gas industry for the area classification of gas network installations involving H2 or an H2/NG blend.
Decarbonising UK Transport: Implications for Electricity Generation, Land Use and Policy
Dec 2022
Publication
To ensure the UK’s net zero targets are met the transition from conventionally fueled transport to low emission alternatives is necessary. The impact from increased decarbonised electricity generation on ecosystem services (ES) and natural capital (NC) are not currently quantified with decarbonisation required to minimise impacts from climate change. This study aims to project the future electric and hydrogen energy demand between 2020 and 2050 for car bus and train to better understand the land/sea area that would be required to support energy generation. In this work predictions of the geospatial impact of renewable energy (onshore/offshore wind and solar) nuclear and fossil fuels on ES and NC were made considering generation mix number of generation installations and energy density. Results show that electric transport will require ~136599 GWh for all vehicle types analysed in 2050 much less than hydrogen transport at ~425532 GWh. We estimate that to power electric transport at least 1515 km2 will be required for solar 1672 km2 for wind and 5 km2 for nuclear. Hydrogen approximately doubles this requirement. Results provide an approximation of the future demands from the transport sector on land and sea area use indicating that a combined electric and hydrogen network will be needed to accommodate a range of socio-economic requirements. While robust assessments of ES and NC impacts are critical in future policies and planning significant reductions in energy demands through a modal shift to (low emission) public transport will be most effective in ensuring a sustainable transport future.
Mitigation of CO Poisoning Hazard in Malfunctioning Gas Appliances Through Use of Hydrogen Blended Gas
Sep 2021
Publication
The HyDeploy project [1] has undertaken an extensive research programme to assess safety and performance of the existing UK gas appliances population fueled with natural gas / hydrogen admixtures (hydrogen blended gas). The first stage of this work [2] focused on well maintained and normally functioning appliances. This work demonstrated that unmodified gas appliances can operate safely with hydrogen blended gas (up to 20 vol% hydrogen) and the key hazard areas of carbon monoxide (CO) production light back and flame out and the operation of flame failure devices are unaffected. It is widely recognized that due to aging and variable degrees of maintenance that the combustion performance of a gas appliance will depreciate over time. In extreme cases this can lead to situations where high levels of CO may be released back into the dwelling resulting in CO poisoning to the occupants. To obtain a universal appreciation of the effect of hydrogen addition on the safety and performance of all gas appliances operation under sub optimal conditions is required and therefore it is important that the operation of malfunctioning appliances fuelled with hydrogen blended gas is assessed. A review of failure modes identified six key scenarios where the composition of the fuel gas may lead to changes in safety performance - these primarily related to the resulting composition of the flue gas but also included delayed ignition. Gas appliance faults that will increase the CO production were tested through a series of experiments to simulate fault conditions and assess the effect of hydrogen blended gas. The fault modes examined included linting flame chilling incorrect appliance set up and modification of gas valve operation. The programme utilized six different appliances tested with three methane-hydrogen fuel blends (containing 0 20 and 28.4 vol% hydrogen). In all cases the switch to hydrogen blended gas reduced CO production. The change in CO production when using hydrogen blended gas is a consequence of a decrease in the theoretical air requirement to achieve complete combustion. In some cases the amount of CO produced was identical to the nonfault baseline performance on methane thereby fully mitigating the consequence of the malfunction. In the case of very high CO production a 90% reduction was recorded when using 20 vol% hydrogen blended gas. In situations such as non-optimal boiler set up the addition of hydrogen to the gas supply would prevent the production of high levels of CO. The findings here together with the results from HyDeploy 1 [2] indicate that the safety and performance of unmodified existing UK gas appliances are not detrimentally affected when using hydrogen blended gas. Furthermore the addition of hydrogen to the fuel gas has been shown to reduce CO production under fault conditions therefore the introduction of hydrogen into the gas network may serve to mitigate the hazard posed by existing faulty appliances that are producing elevated levels of CO.
Regional Insights into Low-carbon Hydrogen Scale Up: World Energy Insights Working Paper
May 2022
Publication
Following the release of the “Hydrogen on the Horizon” series in July and September 2021 the World Energy Council in collaboration with EPRI and PwC led a series of regional deep dives to understand regional differences within low-carbon hydrogen development. These regional deep dives aimed to uncover regional perspectives and differing dynamics for low-carbon hydrogen uptake.<br/>Although each region presents its own distinctive challenges and opportunities the deep dives revealed that the “regional paths” provide new insights into the global scaling up of low-carbon hydrogen in the coming years. In addition each region holds its own unique potential in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.<br/>Key Takeaways:<br/>1. Our new regional insights indicate that low-carbon hydrogen can play a significant role by 2040 across the world by supporting countries’ efforts towards achieving Paris Agreement goals whilst contributing to the diversity and security of their energy portfolios. This would require significant global trade flows of hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels.<br/>2. The momentum for hydrogen-based fuels is continuing to grow worldwide but differences are seen between regions – based on differing market activities and opportunities.<br/>3. Today moving from “whether” to “how” to develop low-carbon hydrogen highlights significant uncertainties which need to be addressed if hydrogen is to reach its full potential.<br/>Can the challenges in various supply chain options be overcome?<br/>Can hydrogen play a role in tackling climate change in the short term?<br/>Can bankable projects emerge and the gap between engineers and financers be bridged? Can the stability of supply of the main low-carbon hydrogen production sources be guaranteed?<br/>4. Enabling low-carbon hydrogen at scale would notably require greater coordination and cooperation amongst stakeholders worldwide to better mobilise public and private finance and to shift the focus to end-users and people through the following actions:<br/>Moving from production cost to end-use price<br/>Developing Guarantees of Origin schemes with sustainability requirements<br/>Developing a global monitoring and reporting tool on low-carbon hydrogen projects<br/>Better consideration of social impacts alongside economic opportunities
Catalysing Hydrogen Investment: What the Market Needs to Deliver Investment in Hydrogen Infrastructure
Oct 2021
Publication
Written by Arup in collaboration with the GIIA this report is centred on the opinions of investors from around the world gathered through a survey of GIIA members and in-depth interviews. It therefore presents the sentiments of the world’s leading fund managers insurance investors pension funds and a sovereign wealth fund. Their opinions matter because these are the decision makers that hold the purse strings when it comes to private sector investment in hydrogen infrastructure. Many of the facts about hydrogen are well-known to many readers and these are presented in this report drawing on Arup’s research and experience as a global infrastructure advisory firm. However the novelty of this report is that it looks at hydrogen through the uncompromising eyes of investors with analysis of feedback which identifies barriers to investment in the infrastructure required to enable the hydrogen economy. Perhaps most importantly it also proposes interventions that policymakers and regulators could take to overcome the barriers currently faced.<br/>Introduction The sentiments of investors are at the heart of this study with results from the survey presented at the beginning of each section to serve as a launch pad for Arup’s analysis. But we want it to be more than an interesting read; it is a call to action for policy makers to create the right environment to catalyse private sector investment and kickstart the hydrogen economy.
Impact Assessment of Hydrogen on Transmission Pipeline BPDs in IGEM/TD/1
Jul 2021
Publication
As part of the LTS Futures HyTechnical project IGEM requested that DNV GL undertake an assessment of the possible impact of hydrogen transmission on BPDs to support the development of supplements to the existing suite of natural gas standards to accommodate the possible future use of hydrogen. The current state of knowledge of the behaviour of large scale high pressure hydrogen releases is limited in comparison with the considerable body of data from research and operational experience of natural gas but is adequate to undertake an impact assessment to take account of the different gas outflow and fire characteristics of 100% hydrogen vs. natural gas.<br/>Calculations of the BPDs for 100% hydrogen pipeline fires on an equivalent basis to those in IGEM/TD/1 for natural gas have been performed with a degree of confidence in the results and demonstrated that the equivalent BPDs for 100% hydrogen are approximately 10% smaller than for natural gas. The results are presented graphically in this report.<br/>However hydrogen introduces the potential for substantially higher overpressures than natural gas due to the higher flame speed and wider flammable limits if delayed ignition is a credible event. The overpressure estimates presented in this report are intended to be scoping calculations to put the likely overpressures into context. The results suggest that significant overpressures are possible at the BPDs but there is a lack of evidence to support the estimation of the overpressures following delayed ignition of a large turbulent hydrogen release in the open (in contrast to explosions in confined or congested regions) and there is a high degree of uncertainty in the predictions presented here. It is therefore recommended that large scale pipeline rupture experiments are performed similar to those undertaken previously for hydrogen natural gas and natural gas/hydrogen mixtures but with ignition engineered to take place after a short delay in order to measure the overpressures and provide the means to validate or refine the predictions made.<br/>The analysis has highlighted limitations in the original method of calculating BPDs in IGEM/TD/1 which reflects the techniques available at the time approximately 40 years ago. Since then understanding of the hazards from pipeline failures and the ability to model the consequences and predict the associated risks to people in the surrounding area have advanced very considerably facilitated by software tools and documented in standards such as IGEM/TD/2. These methods allow the highly transient nature of a high pressure gas pipeline rupture release to be modelled more accurately and for the thermal effects of fires on people and buildings to be calculated taking account of the time-varying thermal dose.<br/>For these reasons a simple comparison of the possible overpressure effects of delayed ignition of a 100% hydrogen release at the BPDs can be misleading and implies that the overpressure hazards could be more severe than those for fires which may not be the case. Example calculations have been performed for a representative pipeline case which indicate that using current methods the predicted thermal hazard distances for 100% hydrogen pipeline fires (house burning and escape for people) are substantially greater than those estimated for overpressures following delayed ignition for similar levels of vulnerability. This report addresses buried pipelines only – the potential for more severe explosion overpressure effects for hydrogen releases may be more significant for Above Ground Installations (AGIs) especially where congestion or confinement may be present. It is recommended that similar studies are conducted to quantify the effect of hydrogen conversion on the consequences and risks associated with hydrogen releases at AGIs.<br/>Finally it is stressed that the analysis in this report does not consider the relative risks for 100% hydrogen and the equivalent natural gas pipelines. There remain uncertainties in the failure frequencies for steel pipelines transporting hydrogen and particularly the probability of immediate and delayed ignition. The likelihood of delayed ignition of a large turbulent high pressure hydrogen gas pipeline rupture release may be very low due to the wider flammability limits and lower minimum ignition energy for hydrogen compared with natural gas. Additional research is currently ongoing or planned to address the gaps in knowledge for 100% hydrogen which should allow more robust comparisons of the relative risks to be made in the future.
Hydrogen-electricity Hybrid Energy Pipelines for Railway Transportation: Design and Economic Evaluation
Mar 2024
Publication
With the decarbonization and electrification of modern railway transportation the demand for both the highcapacity electrical energy and hydrogen fuel energy is increasingly high. A novel scheme was proposed from liquid hydrogen production by surplus wind and solar energy to liquid hydrogen-electricity hybrid energy transmission for railway transportation. The 100 MW hybrid energy transmission pipeline was designed with the 10 kA/1.5 kV superconducting DC cable for electricity and cryogenic layers for liquid hydrogen and liquid nitrogen showing strong capability in transmitting “electricity + cold energy + chemical energy” simultaneously. Economic evaluation was performed with respect to the energy equipment capacity and costs with sensitivity and profitability analysis. With the discount rate 8% the dynamic payback period of the hybrid energy pipeline was 7.1 years. Results indicated that the shortest dynamic payback period of the hybrid energy pipeline was 4.8 years with the maximum transmission distance 93 km. Overall this article shows the novel concept and design of liquid hydrogen-electricity hybrid energy pipelines and proves the technical and economic feasibilities for future bulk hybrid energy transmission for railway transportation.
Demonstration of a kW-scale Solid Oxide Fuel Cell-calciner for Power Generation and Production of Calcined Materials
Aug 2019
Publication
Carbonate looping (CaL) has been shown to be less energy-intensive when compared to mature carbon capture technologies. Further reduction in the efficiency penalties can be achieved by employing a more efficient source of heat for the calcination process instead of oxy-fuel combustion. In this study a kW-scale solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)-integrated calciner was designed and developed to evaluate the technical feasibility of simultaneously generating power and driving the calcination process using the high-grade heat of the anode off-gas. Such a system can be integrated with CaL systems or employed as a negative-emission technology where the calcines are used to capture CO2 from the atmosphere. The demonstration unit consisted of a planar SOFC stack operating at 750 °C and a combined afterburner/calciner to combust hydrogen slip from the anode off-gas and thermally decompose magnesite dolomite and limestone. The demonstrator generated up to 2 kWelDC power achieved a temperature in the range of 530–550 °C at the inlet of the afterburner and up to 678 °C in the calciner which was sufficient to demonstrate full calcination of magnesite and partial calcination of dolomite. However in order to achieve the temperature required for calcination of limestone further scale-up and heat integration are needed. These results confirmed technical feasibility of the SOFC-calciner concept for production of calcined materials either for the market or for direct air capture (DAC).
Everything About Hydrogen Podcast: Electron Stewardship in the Orkney Islands
Nov 2019
Publication
On this weeks episode the team are talking all things hydrogen in the Orkneys with Adele Lidderdale (Hydrogen Officer for Orkney Island Council) and Jon Clipsham (Hydrogen Manager EMEC). While the islands are best known for their exceptional wildlife whisky and cruise ships the Orkney islands have also emerged as a hub for the green hydrogen economy. Working alongside local government community groups research agencies and private sector partners the islands have deployed hydrogen solutions to heat a school power ferries in port move local council workers from A to B and in the future perhaps make Gin?! All this and more on the show.
The podcast can be found on their website
The podcast can be found on their website
IGEM/TD/1 Edition 6 Supplement 2 - High Pressure Hydrogen Pipelines
Nov 2021
Publication
This Supplement gives additional requirements and qualifications for the transmission of Hydrogen including Natural Gas/Hydrogen blended mixtures (subsequently referred to as NG/H blends) and for the repurposing of Natural Gas (NG) pipelines to Hydrogen service. For the purposes of this document any NG/H blend above 10% MOL is considered to be an equivalence to 100% hydrogen. For blends below 10% MOL there is no evidence to confirm that blends containing up to 10 mol.% hydrogen do not cause material degradation but it is considered that the risk is low.
This Supplement covers the design construction inspection testing operation and maintenance of steel pipelines and certain associated installations in Hydrogen service and the repurposing of NG pipelines to Hydrogen service at maximum operating pressure (MOP) exceeding 7 bar and not exceeding 137.9 bar.
This standard can be purchased here
This Supplement covers the design construction inspection testing operation and maintenance of steel pipelines and certain associated installations in Hydrogen service and the repurposing of NG pipelines to Hydrogen service at maximum operating pressure (MOP) exceeding 7 bar and not exceeding 137.9 bar.
This standard can be purchased here
Condensed Phase Explosions Involving Liquid Hydrogen
Sep 2021
Publication
Liquid hydrogen may have an important role in the storage and transportation of hydrogen energy. It may also provide the best option for some users of hydrogen energy notably the aviation sector. In the 1960’s liquid hydrogen spillages in open uncongested conditions sometimes produced violent condensed phase explosions as well as the familiar gas phase flash and sustained pool fire. Testing showed that burning mixtures of LH2 and solid oxygen/nitrogen readily transitioned to detonation for oxygen concentrations in the solid phase at or above 50%. Such explosive events have been observed in more recent research work on LH2 spillage and the pressure effects could be significant in some accident scenarios. There is a need to understand how solids are produced following spillage and what factors determine the level of oxygen enrichment. This paper describes the physical processes involved in the accumulation of solids during a horizontal discharge at ground level based on observations made in a recent HSE test that led to a condensed phase explosion. Areas where solids accumulated but remained in intimate contact with LH2 are identified. The paper also includes a thermodynamic and fluid mechanical analysis of the condensation process that includes the calculation of densities of mixtures of LH2 and air in different proportions. When the difference in flow speed between air and underlying LH2 is low a stable condensation layer can develop above the liquid where the temperature is just under the initial condensation point of air allowing sustained oxygen enrichment of condensate.
Hydrogen-assisted Fatigue Crack Growth: Pre-charging vs In-situ Testing in Gaseous Environments
Mar 2023
Publication
We investigate the implications of conducting hydrogen-assisted fatigue crack growth experiments in a hydrogen gas environment (in-situ hydrogen charging) or in air (following exposure to hydrogen gas). The study is conducted on welded 42CrMo4 steel a primary candidate for the future hydrogen transport infrastructure allowing us to additionally gain insight into the differences in behavior between the base steel and the coarse grain heat affected zone. The results reveal significant differences between the two testing approaches and the two weld regions. The differences are particularly remarkable for the comparison of testing methodologies with fatigue crack growth rates being more than one order of magnitude higher over relevant loading regimes when the samples are tested in a hydrogen-containing environment relative to the pre-charged samples. Aided by finite element modelling and microscopy analysis these differences are discussed and rationalized. Independent of the testing approach the heat affected zone showed a higher susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement. Similar microstructural behavior is observed for both testing approaches with the base metal exhibiting martensite lath decohesion while the heat affected zone experienced both martensite lath decohesion and intergranular fracture.
HyDeploy: Demonstrating Non-destructive Carbon Savings Through Hydrogen Blending
Aug 2021
Publication
The project has successfully developed the safety case and delivered a hydrogen blend via the gas network into customers’ homes. The demonstration of safety for the specific network was based on robust evidence and clear operational procedures. Alongside the enabling safety case the HyDeploy project has demonstrated the first steps of hydrogen deployment are safe technically feasible and non-disruptive both for the network and domestic users.
The key outcomes of the HyDeploy project were:
The key outcomes of the HyDeploy project were:
- Successful achievement of the first regulatory approval from the HSE to operate a live gas network above the current hydrogen limit of 0.1 vol%. The approval allowed blending up to 20 vol%.
- Development of the technical and procedural precedents to generate evidence for review by the HSE which have informed subsequent safety case submissions through HyDeploy2 and the wider hydrogen safety case industry.
- The design fabrication installation and operation of the UK’s first hydrogen grid entry unit.
- Integration of novel hydrogen production and blending technologies to create the first hydrogen delivery system based on electrolytic generation into a live gas grid.
- Safe delivery of the UK’s first hydrogen blend trial to 100 homes and 30 faculty buildings. The trial delivered over 42000 cubic metres of hydrogen and abated over 27 tonnes of CO2.
- Collaboration with appliance and equipment providers to build a robust evidence base to demonstrate equipment suitability.
- Evidencing the suitability of hydrogen blends with domestic appliances as well as larger commercial appliances including catering equipment and boilers up to 600 kW.
- Evidencing the suitability of hydrogen blends with medium and low-pressure distribution systems relating to key performance metrics such as: pressure control; odour intensity and uniform gas compositions.
- Promotion of supply chain innovation through facilitating trials to develop gas detection and analysis technologies.
- Establishing a robust social science evidence base to understand the attitudes and experience of consumers actually using hydrogen blends.
HydroGenerally - Episode 2: Where Should Hydrogen Be Used?
Apr 2022
Publication
The Innovate UK KTN Hydrogen Innovation Network is bringing you this second episode with Steffan Eldred and Simon Buckley from Innovate UK KTN who continue their ‘back to basics' approach and delve deeper to understand where hydrogen should be used with their special guest Joanna Richart Head of Hydrogen Business at Ricardo. As with any technology or fuel discussions can get carried away implying they are the solution to all things but at Innovate UK KTN we strongly believe that we should ensure hydrogen is used where it can be most effective for decarbonising energy industrial and chemical industries.
The podcast can be found on their website
The podcast can be found on their website
A Multi-objective MILP Model for the Design and Operation of Future Integrated Multi-vector Energy Networks Capturing Detailed Spatio-temporal Dependencies
Dec 2017
Publication
A multi-objective optimisation model based on mixed integer linear programming is presented that can simultaneously determine the design and operation of any integrated multi-vector energy networks. It can answer variants of the following questions: What is the most effective way in terms of cost value/profit and/or emissions of designing and operating the integrated multi-vector energy networks that utilise a variety of primary energy sources to deliver different energy services such as heat electricity and mobility given the availability of primary resources and the levels of demands and their distribution across space and time? When to invest in technologies where to locate them; what resources should be used where when and how to convert them to the energy services required; how to transport the resources and manage inventory? Scenarios for Great Britain were examined involving different primary energy sources such as natural gas biomass and wind power in order to satisfy demands for heat electricity and mobility via various energy vectors such as electricity natural gas hydrogen and syngas. Different objectives were considered such as minimising cost maximising profit minimising emissions and maximising renewable energy production subject to the availability of suitable land for biomass and wind turbines as well as the maximum local production and import rates for natural gas. Results suggest that if significant mobility demands are met by hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles then hydrogen is the preferred energy vector over natural gas for satisfying heat demands. If natural gas is not used and energy can only be generated from wind power and biomass electricity and syngas are the preferred energy carriers for satisfying electricity and heat demands.
HydroGenerally - Episode 4: Hydrogen in a Global Maritime Industry: Plain Sailing or a Rough Ride?
May 2022
Publication
In this fourth episode Simon Buckley and Matthew Moss from Innovate UK KTN are exploring the use of hydrogen in the global maritime industry alongside their special guest Chester Lewis Business Development Manager at Ryze Hydrogen.
This podcast can be found on their website
This podcast can be found on their website
Assessment of Operability and Inspection, Maintenance and Repair Requirements for Transmission Pipelines and Installations in Hydrogen Service
Apr 2021
Publication
This report has been prepared for Hytechnical work programme to support the technical strategy for repurposing existing transmission pipelines and installations for the transportation and distribution of hydrogen and natural gas / hydrogen blends. The aim of the Hytechnical work programme is to support the implementation of the IGEM supplements to the standards TD/1 TD/13 TD/3 and TD/4.<br/>The report covers a desk study into the requirements for the inspection maintenance operation and repair of above 7 bar natural gas pipelines and installations designed and operated in accordance with the standards existing IGEM/TD/1 and IGEM/TD/13 which are repurposed for hydrogen service.
Gas Goes Green: A System for All Seasons
Oct 2021
Publication
‘A System For All Seasons’ analyses Britain’s electricity generation and consumption trends concluding that the country’s wind and solar farms will have enough spare electricity generated in spring and summer when demand is lower to produce green hydrogen to the equivalent capacity of 25 Hinkley Point C nuclear power plants.
The hydrogen stored would provide the same amount of energy needed for every person in the UK to charge a Tesla Model S electric vehicle more than 21 times in the autumn and winter months when energy demand is highest creating a clean energy buffer that avoids having to manage limited energy supplies on the international markets.
Crucially the research finds that the UK has enough capacity to store the hydrogen in a combination of salt caverns and disused oil and gas fields in the North Sea as well other locations to meet this demand.
The research also finds that using renewable hydrogen will help reduce the total number of wind farms needed in 2050 by more than 75% because it will ensure electricity generated by Britain’s wind farms is used as efficiently as possible by avoiding surplus electricity going to waste.
‘A System For All Seasons’ finds that:
The hydrogen stored would provide the same amount of energy needed for every person in the UK to charge a Tesla Model S electric vehicle more than 21 times in the autumn and winter months when energy demand is highest creating a clean energy buffer that avoids having to manage limited energy supplies on the international markets.
Crucially the research finds that the UK has enough capacity to store the hydrogen in a combination of salt caverns and disused oil and gas fields in the North Sea as well other locations to meet this demand.
The research also finds that using renewable hydrogen will help reduce the total number of wind farms needed in 2050 by more than 75% because it will ensure electricity generated by Britain’s wind farms is used as efficiently as possible by avoiding surplus electricity going to waste.
‘A System For All Seasons’ finds that:
- Britain’s wind and solar farms could generate between 60-80GW of renewable hydrogen - the equivalent capacity of 25 Hinkley Point C nuclear power plants - from spare renewable electricity generated in the spring and summer months between May and October each year.
- Running the energy system this way will reduce the need for the total electricity generating capacity of UK wind farms from 500-600GW by 2050 down to 140-190GW – a reduction of up to 76%.
- It would mean Great Britain would be using spare renewable electricity that would otherwise go to waste to produce green hydrogen. Under the alternative scenario additional wind farms would need to be built to accommodate for autumn and wind energy demand peaks but be left unused during other times of the year.
- With 140-190GW of wind generation capacity 115 to 140TWh of green hydrogen would be stored – enough energy for every person in the UK to charge a Tesla Model S more than 21 times.
- The potential storage volume from Britain’s salt fields ranges from >1TWh up to 30TWh. For disused oil and gas fields the potential storage volume for individual sites ranges from ~1TWh up to 330TWh.
HyDeploy2: Appliance Testing Summary and Interpretation
Apr 2021
Publication
In order to inform the Quantified Risk Assessment (QRA) and procedures for the Winlaton trial the HyDeploy 2 project has undertaken a second programme of work focused on assessing the safe operation of gas appliances with hydrogen blended gas. This work extends the initial programme of work undertaken in HyDeploy 1 in 2018. Collectively these two projects provide an evidence base to support the project objective to demonstrate that there are no overarching safety concerns for the addition of up to 20 % mol/mol hydrogen to the GB natural gas distribution network.<br/>Click on the supplements tab to view the other documents from this report
Hydrogen Production in the Light of Sustainability: A Comparative Study on the Hydrogen Production Technologies Using the Sustainability Index Assessment Method
Sep 2021
Publication
Hydrogen as an environmentally friendly energy carrier has received special attention to solving uncertainty about the presence of renewable energy and its dependence on time and weather conditions. This material can be prepared from different sources and in various ways. In previous studies fossil fuels have been used in hydrogen production but due to several limitations especially the limitation of the access to this material in the not-too-distant future and the great problem of greenhouse gas emissions during hydrogen production methods. New methods based on renewable and green energy sources as energy drivers of hydrogen production have been considered. In these methods water or biomass materials are used as the raw material for hydrogen production. In this article after a brief review of different hydrogen production methods concerning the required raw material these methods are examined and ranked from different aspects of economic social environmental and energy and exergy analysis sustainability. In the following the current position of hydrogen production is discussed. Finally according to the introduced methods their advantages and disadvantages solar electrolysis as a method of hydrogen production on a small scale and hydrogen production by thermochemical method on a large scale are introduced as the preferred methods.
Technology Roadmaps for Transition Management: The Case of Hydrogen Energy
Oct 2011
Publication
Technology roadmaps are increasingly used by governments to inform and promote technological transitions such as a transition to a hydrogen energy system. This paper develops a framework for understanding how current roadmapping practice relates to emerging theories of the governance of systems innovation. In applying this framework to a case study of hydrogen roadmaps the paper finds that roadmapping for transitions needs to place greater emphasis on ensuring good quality and transparent analytic and participatory procedures. To be most useful roadmaps should be embedded within institutional structures that enable the incorporation of learning and re-evaluation but in practice most transition roadmaps are one-off exercises
Establishing the State of the Art for the Definition of Safety Distances for Hydrogen Refuelling Stations
Sep 2021
Publication
Hydrogen is widely considered a clean source of energy from the viewpoint of reduction in carbon dioxide emissions as a countermeasure against global warming and air pollution. Various efforts have been made to develop hydrogen as a viable energy carrier including the implementation of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and hydrogen refuelling stations (HRSs). A good network of hydrogen refuelling stations is essential for operating FCVs and several hydrogen refuelling stations have been constructed and are in operation worldwide [1]. However despite the potential benefits of hydrogen its flammability creates significant safety concerns. Furthermore even though the energy density of hydrogen is lower than that of gasoline and there is no carbon present which means the amount of radiant heat flux released during combustion is relatively small hydrogen must be handled at high pressure in order to make the cruising range of a fuel cell vehicle (FCV) equal to that of gasoline-powered vehicles. Therefore it is essential to properly evaluate these safety concerns and take reasonable and effective countermeasures. Approximately 50 accidents and incidents involving HRSs have been reported globally [2]. Sakamoto et al. [2] analysed accidents and incidents at HRSs in Japan and the USA to identify the safety issues. Most types of accidents and incidents are small leakages of hydrogen but some have led to serious consequences such as fire and explosion. Recently there was a serious incident in Norway at Kjørbo where a strong explosion was observed [3] – indeed this was within a short time of two other serious incidents in the USA and South Korea showing that the frequency of such incidents may be higher as deployments increase. Use of hydrogen forklifts (and the associated refuelling infrastructure) is another challenge to consider. Hydrogen refuelling stations are often installed in urban areas facing roads and are readily accessible to everyone. Therefore a key measure to approve the hydrogen refuelling stations is safety distances between the hydrogen infrastructure and the surrounding structures such as office buildings or residential dwellings. Whilst a lot of work has been carried out on safety distances (see e.g. [4-6) the accident scenario assumptions and safety distances varied widely in those studies. As a result no consensus has yet emerged on the safety distances to be used and efforts are still needed to bridge the gap between international standards and local regulations (see e.g. [7-8]). The paper analyses this issue and provides guidance on the way forward.
Hy4Heat Annex To Site Specific Safety Case for Hydrogen Community Demonstration - Work Package 7
May 2021
Publication
The Hy4Heat Safety Assessment has focused on assessing the safe use of hydrogen gas in certain types of domestic properties and buildings. The summary reports (the Precis and the Safety Assessment Conclusions Report) bring together all the findings of the work and should be looked to for context by all readers. The technical reports should be read in conjunction with the summary reports. While the summary reports are made as accessible as possible for general readers the technical reports may be most accessible for readers with a degree of technical subject matter understanding. All of the safety assessment reports have now been reviewed by the HSE<br/>Annex prepared to support Site Specific Safety Cases for hydrogen gas community demonstrations based on work undertaken by the Hy4Heat programme. It covers a collection of recommended risk reduction measures for application downstream of the Emergency Control Valve (ECV)
Extreme Energetic Materials at Ultrahigh Pressures
Jul 2020
Publication
Owing to their extremely high energy density single-bonded polymeric nitrogen and atomic metallic hydrogen are generally regarded as the ultimate energetic materials. Although their syntheses normally require ultrahigh pressures of several hundred gigapascals (GPa) which prohibit direct materials application research on their stability metastability and fundamental properties are valuable for seeking extreme energetic materials through alternative synthetic routes. Various crystalline and amorphous polymeric nitrogens have been discovered between 100 and 200 GPa. Metastability at ambient conditions has been demonstrated for some of these phases. Cubic-gauche and black-phosphorus polymorphs of single-bonded nitrogen are two particularly interesting phases. Their large hystereses warrant further application-inspired basic research of nitrogen. In contrast although metallic hydrogen contains the highest-estimated energy density its picosecond lifetime and picogram quantity make its practical material application impossible at present. “Metallic hydrogen” remains a curiosity-driven basic research pursuit focusing on the pressure-induced evolution of the molecular hydrogen crystal and its electronic band structure from a low-density insulator with a very wide electronic band gap to a semiconductor with a narrow gap to a dense molecular metal and atomic metal and eventually to a previously unknown exotic state of matter. This great experimental challenge is driving relentless advancement in ultrahigh-pressure science and technology.
HyDeploy2 Report: Exemption
Jun 2021
Publication
Exemption is requested by Northern Gas Networks Ltd (NGN) from the obligation set out in Regulation 8(1) of the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 (GSMR) to convey only natural gas that is compliant with the Interchangeability requirements of Part I of Schedule 3 of the GSMR within a section of the NGN gas distribution network near Winlaton (the “field trial area”). The field trial area is owned and operated by Northern Gas Networks Ltd. The proposed conveyance of non-compliant gas (hereafter called the “Winlaton Field Trial”) will last for one year and is part of the Network Innovation Competition Project “HyDeploy2”.<br/>The project the first two phases of which are funded under the UK Network Innovation Competition scheme aims to demonstrate that natural gas containing levels of hydrogen beyond the upper limit set out in Schedule 3 of in the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations (GSMR) can be distributed and utilised safely and efficiently in the UK gas distribution networks. The first phase of the HyDeploy project is currently underway and includes a 10-month field trial that of hydrogen injection into part of a private gas distribution system owned and operated by Keele University. The second phase of the HyDeploy project (HyDeploy2) continues on from the work of the first phase and is scheduled to conclude with two 12-month field trials in which hydrogen will be injected into public gas networks owned and operated by NGN and Cadent Gas.<br/>Click on the supplements tab to view the other documents from this report
Navigating Algeria Towards a Sustainable Green Hydrogen Future to Empower North Africa and Europe's Clean Hydrogen Transition
Mar 2024
Publication
Algeria richly-endowed with renewable resources is well-positioned to become a vital green hydrogen provider to Europe. Aiming to aid policymakers stakeholders and energy sector participants this study embodies the first effort in literature to investigate the viability and cost-effectiveness of implementing green hydrogen production projects destined for exports to Europe via existing pipelines. A land suitability analysis utilizing multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) coupled with geographical information system (GIS) identified that over 43.55% of Algeria is highly-suitable for hydrogen production. Five optimal locations were investigated utilizing Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Electric Renewables (HOMER) with solar-hydrogen proving the most cost-effective option. Wind-based production offering higher output volumes reaching 968 kg/h requires turbine cost reductions of 17.50% (Ain Salah) to 54.50% (Djanet) to achieve a competitive levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of $3.85/kg with PV systems. A techno-economic sensitivity analysis was conducted identifying Djanet as the most promising location for a 100 MW solar-hydrogen plant with a competitive LCOH ranging from $1.96/kg to $4.85/kg.
A Financial Model for Lithium-ion Storage in a Photovoltaic and Biogas Energy System
May 2019
Publication
Electrical energy storage (EES) such as lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries can reduce curtailment of renewables maximizing renewable utilization by storing surplus electricity. Several techno-economic analyses have been performed on EES but few have investigated the financial performance. This paper presents a state-of-the-art financial model obtaining novel and significative financial and economics results when applied to Li-ion EES. This work is a significant step forward since traditional analysis on EES are based on oversimplified and unrealistic economic models. A discounted cash flow model for the Li-ion EES is introduced and applied to examine the financial performance of three EES operating scenarios. Real-life solar irradiance load and retail electricity price data from Kenya are used to develop a set of case studies. The EES is coupled with photovoltaics and an anaerobic digestion biogas power plant. The results show the impact of capital cost: the Li-ion project is unprofitable in Kenya with a capital cost of 1500 $/kWh but is profitable at 200 $/kWh. The study shows that the EES will generate a higher profit if it is cycled more frequently (hence a higher lifetime electricity output) although the lifetime is reduced due to degradation.
HydroGenerally - Episode 3: Lift Off for Hydrogen in Aviation
Apr 2022
Publication
In this third episode Steffan Eldred and Hannah Abson from Innovate UK KTN are exploring the scale of the opportunity that hydrogen and aviation present alongside their special guest Katy Milne Head of Industrial Strategy at FlyZero.
The podcast can be found on their website
The podcast can be found on their website
What is the Energy Balance of Electrofuels Produced Through Power-to-fuel Integration with Biogas Facilities?
Nov 2021
Publication
The need to reduce the climate impact of the transport sector has led to an increasing interest in the utilisation of alternative fuels. Producing advanced fuels through the integration of anaerobic digestion and power-to-fuel technologies may offer a solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from difficult to decarbonise modes of transport such as heavy goods vehicles shipping and commercial aviation while also offering wider system benefits. This paper investigates the energy balance of power-to-fuel (power-to-methane power-to-methanol power-to-Fischer-Tropsch fuels) production integrated with a biogas facility co-digesting grass silage and dairy slurry. Through the integration of power-to-methane with anaerobic digestion an increase in system gross energy of 62.6% was found. Power-to-methanol integration with the biogas system increased the gross energy by 50% while power-to-Fischer-Tropsch fuels increased the gross energy yield by 32%. The parasitic energy demand for hydrogen production was highlighted as the most significant factor for integrated biogas and power-to-fuel facilities. Consuming electricity that would otherwise have been curtailed and optimising the anaerobic digestion process were identified as key to improving the energetic efficiency of all system configurations. However the broad cross-sectoral benefits of the overarching cascading circular economy system such as providing electrical grid stability and utilising waste resources must also be considered for a comprehensive perspective on the integration of anaerobic digestion and power-to-fuel.
IGEM/TD/13 Edition 3 Supplement 1 - Pressure Regulating Installations for Hydrogen at Pressures Exceeding 7 Bar
Nov 2021
Publication
IGEM/TD/13 Standard applies to the safe design construction inspection testing operation and maintenance of pressure regulating installations (PRIs) in accordance with current knowledge and operational experience.
This Supplement provides additional requirements for new PRIs to be used for the transmission of Hydrogen including Natural Gas/Hydrogen blended mixtures (subsequently referred to as NG/H blends) and for the repurposing of Natural Gas (NG) PRIs for Hydrogen service.
NG/H blends are considered to be equivalent to 100 mol % Hydrogen with respect to limits on design stresses the potential effect on the material properties and damage and defect categories and acceptance levels unless an additional technical evaluation is carried out to qualify the materials.
NG/H blends containing in excess of 10 mol % Hydrogen are considered to be equivalent to 100 mol.% Hydrogen with respect to all other requirements except for hazardous areas.
This Supplement gives additional recommendations for PRIs and installations
You can purchase the standard here
This Supplement provides additional requirements for new PRIs to be used for the transmission of Hydrogen including Natural Gas/Hydrogen blended mixtures (subsequently referred to as NG/H blends) and for the repurposing of Natural Gas (NG) PRIs for Hydrogen service.
NG/H blends are considered to be equivalent to 100 mol % Hydrogen with respect to limits on design stresses the potential effect on the material properties and damage and defect categories and acceptance levels unless an additional technical evaluation is carried out to qualify the materials.
NG/H blends containing in excess of 10 mol % Hydrogen are considered to be equivalent to 100 mol.% Hydrogen with respect to all other requirements except for hazardous areas.
This Supplement gives additional recommendations for PRIs and installations
- with an upstream maximum operating pressure (MOP) not greater than 100 bar
- with an outlet pressure greater than or equal to 7 bar
- for use with Hydrogen or NG/H blends with a Hydrogen content greater than 10 %
- operating with a temperature range between -20°C and 120°C.
You can purchase the standard here
A Novel Framework for Development and Optimisation of Future Electricity Scenarios with High Penetration of Renewables and Storage
May 2019
Publication
Although electricity supply is still dominated by fossil fuels it is expected that renewable sources will have a much larger contribution in the future due to the need to mitigate climate change. Therefore this paper presents a new framework for developing Future Electricity Scenarios (FuturES) with high penetration of renewables. A multi-period linear programming model has been created for power-system expansion planning. This has been coupled with an economic dispatch model PowerGAMA to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of the developed scenarios while matching supply and demand. Application of FuturES is demonstrated through the case of Chile which has ambitious plans to supply electricity using only renewable sources. Four cost-optimal scenarios have been developed for the year 2050 using FuturES: two Business as usual (BAU) and two Renewable electricity (RE) scenarios. The BAU scenarios are unconstrained in terms of the technology type and can include all 11 options considered. The RE scenarios aim to have only renewables in the mix including storage. The results show that both BAU scenarios have a levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) lower than or equal to today’s costs ($72.7–77.3 vs $77.6/MWh) and include 81–90% of renewables. The RE scenarios are slightly more expensive than today’s costs ($81–87/MWh). The cumulative investment for the BAU scenarios is $123-$145 bn compared to $147-$157 bn for the RE. The annual investment across the scenarios is estimated at $4.0 ± 0.4 bn. Both RE scenarios show sufficient flexibility in matching supply and demand despite solar photovoltaics and wind power contributing around half of the total supply. Therefore the FuturES framework is a powerful tool for aiding the design of cost-efficient power systems with high penetration of renewables.
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