The Compressed Gas Association (CGA) announced the release of its latest standard, H-17: guideline for small-scale H₂ production. This standard addresses the critical need for safety and operational guidelines in the burgeoning field of small-scale H₂ production, particularly in response to the increasing demand for H₂ as a clean fuel source, especially for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

Historically, large-scale H₂ production has dominated the industry, relying primarily on the steam methane reforming (SMR) process. Smaller plants have also utilized the SMR process, typically situated within or near H₂ customer facilities. However, as the demand for H₂ continues to grow, smaller production facilities have become more prevalent, positioning the source of H₂ closer to fueling stations and other end users. These facilities differ primarily in size rather than operational method.

Small-scale H₂ production plants serve a distinct purpose by providing accessibility and visibility to the public, including individuals with limited or no experience in the industry. Furthermore, these facilities may operate with reduced or no staffing, making safety considerations of paramount importance.

The CGA H-17 standard addresses these emerging challenges by providing a comprehensive set of safety and operational guidelines specifically tailored to small-scale H₂ production plants. Key areas covered by this standard include:

• Mitigation of process hazards: Addressing risks associated with flammable, toxic, high-temperature gases, high voltage electricity, and hazardous process materials, such as water treatment chemicals, catalysts and adsorbents.
• Bulk liquid H₂ storage: Guidance on dealing with hazards related to bulk liquid H₂ backup storage systems, which may necessitate compliance with OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) and EPA Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations.
• Co-location with fueling stations: Strategies for minimizing the impact of co-locating production facilities with vehicle fueling stations and managing public users who may not fully grasp the hazards of H₂.
• Staffing considerations: Addressing safety concerns associated with partially staffed (lone worker) or unstaffed production facilities.

The CGA H-17 standard ensures that the burgeoning small-scale H₂ production industry operates safely and efficiently, enabling the wider adoption of H₂ as a clean energy source.

Click here for more information: https://portal.cganet.com/Publication/Details.aspx?id=H-17