NEWS STORIES | NOVEMBER 4 2023

Enhancing Safety in Green Hydrogen Production: IGH2A’s Guidelines for Electrolyzer and Balance-of-Plant Installation

Introduction:

As the world embraces the promise of green hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source, safety becomes a paramount concern in the deployment of large-scale green hydrogen projects. The International Green Hydrogen Alliance (IGH2A), a leading advocate for green hydrogen technologies, recognizes the urgency of addressing safety concerns to facilitate the growth of this transformative industry.

In response to the critical need for standardized safety measures, IGH2A has diligently developed comprehensive guidelines for the installation and configuration of electrolyzers and balance-of-plant (BoP) components. These guidelines serve as a fundamental framework, designed to mitigate risks, ensure the well-being of personnel, and foster a shared understanding of safety practices across the green hydrogen community.

In this publication, we present IGH2A’s meticulously crafted standards and guidelines, which are rooted in safety best practices, industry expertise, and a commitment to sustainability. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive resource for industry stakeholders, project developers, operators, and regulatory bodies seeking to establish a culture of safety in the green hydrogen sector. These guidelines not only reduce the complexity of risk assessments but also contribute to the harmonious growth of green hydrogen technology.

With the adoption of these standards, the green hydrogen industry can move forward with confidence, knowing that safety is a top priority. IGH2A invites you to explore and implement these guidelines as we collectively work toward a safer and more sustainable future powered by green hydrogen.

Here the key standards and guidelines for the installation and configuration of electrolyzers and balance-of-plant (BoP) components that IGH2A is advocating for:

1. Electrolyzer Siting and Installation:

Location Assessment: Before installation, a comprehensive site assessment should be conducted to ensure adequate spacing, ventilation, and safety measures.

Clear Zoning: Establish clear zones around the electrolyzer system, clearly demarcating areas that are off-limits to unauthorized personnel.

Ventilation Requirements: Proper ventilation systems must be in place to prevent the buildup of hydrogen gas.

Electrical Safety: Ensure all electrical components and connections are installed according to electrical codes and standards.

2. Design and Configuration:

Proper System Sizing: Electrolyzer systems should be appropriately sized to match the hydrogen production demands, avoiding overloading or underutilization.

Component Compatibility: Ensure compatibility between the electrolyzer and BoP components to prevent potential hazards or inefficiencies.

Redundancy and Backup: Implement redundancy in critical components to ensure uninterrupted operation and safety during component failures.

3. Emergency Measures:

Leak Detection: Install hydrogen gas leak detection systems that trigger alarms and shut down the system in the event of a leak.

Emergency Shutdown Procedures: Develop and document clear procedures for emergency shutdown in case of hazardous situations.

Safety Shutdown Systems: Include safety shutdown systems that automatically isolate the electrolyzer and associated components in emergencies.

4. Safety Equipment:

Safety Barriers and Signage: Install physical barriers and clearly visible signage to prevent unauthorized access to hazardous areas.

Fire Suppression Systems: Implement fire suppression systems in close proximity to the electrolyzer to mitigate the risk of fires.

Safety Equipment Accessibility: Ensure that safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and first-aid kits, is easily accessible.

5. Maintenance and Inspection:

Regular Inspections: Develop a schedule for routine inspections of all components to identify and rectify potential issues proactively.

Maintenance Records: Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities and inspections.

Operator Training: Ensure that personnel responsible for maintenance are adequately trained in safety protocols.

6. Reporting and Documentation:

Incident Reporting: Develop a clear incident reporting and investigation process to learn from any safety-related incidents.

Documentation of Modifications: Any modifications to the electrolyzer or BoP components should be documented and reviewed for safety compliance.

7. Regulatory Compliance:

Compliance with Local Regulations: Ensure that all installation and configuration activities adhere to local safety and environmental regulations.

Third-Party Inspection: Engage third-party inspectors to verify compliance with safety standards and guidelines.

These standards and guidelines serve as a foundation for ensuring the safe installation and operation of green hydrogen electrolyzers and associated components. IGH2A actively encourages their adoption and continual improvement in the pursuit of a safer and more sustainable green hydrogen industry.