DNV has released a new standard, DNV-ST-J301 Electrolyzer systems, embedded in DNV’s certification framework for the equipment and facilities used in producing H₂ and its derivatives through water electrolysis. This standard integrates seamlessly with ISO 22734 H₂ generators using water electrolysis, which it complements to offer an unparalleled framework for safety and compliance.

H₂ production carries specific risks requiring robust safety measures. DNV-ST-J301 addresses these challenges with a comprehensive, risk-based approach covering the entire lifecycle of electrolyzer systems. The standard consolidates all technical safety requirements into a single, clear document, simplifying compliance while providing the H₂ industry with a definitive benchmark for safe, reliable, and scalable operations. Its release aligns with the recently announced EU Innovation Fund H₂ auction, where certifications are expected to play a crucial role in project success.

Key features of the new standard. The new standard, DNV-ST-J301, provides a comprehensive framework to address the unique risks of H₂ production through electrolyzers. It establishes detailed safety requirements for the design, construction, and operation of these systems, by defining proportionate actions based on risk severity to ensure both effective and cost-efficient compliance.

DNV-ST-J301 not only focuses on the equipment itself, but further onto the integration at plant level, thereby supporting early risk reduction for projects and stakeholders, saving money for developers in the long run.

This standard builds on insights from a joint industry project (JIP) involving 30 global partners, establishing a fully integrated standard for electrolyzer systems. It is tailored to address hazards unique to H₂ technologies and offers solutions that align with industry best practices and emerging global regulations.

COMPLEMENTARY GUIDANCE AND CERTIFICATIONS

DNV’s new standard is part of a broader framework that includes service specifications, such as:

• DNV’s Verification and certification of power-to-x equipment and Verification of power-to-x facilities service specifications (DNV-SE-0674 and DNV-SE-0656), which offer flexible, risk-based verification and certification for power-to-x equipment and facilities, certifying also compliance with ISO 22734 and regional regulatory frameworks globally (e.g. EU CE compliance).
• DNV-SE-0654, designed to verify the environmental sustainability of H₂

In addition, DNV-RP-J302, a recommended practice for evaluating and testing electrolyzer performance is scheduled for external hearing in Q1, 2025, and DNV-ST-J30x, a product standard, will soon be released. These complementary documents align with the forthcoming revision of ISO 22734, reinforcing DNV’s leadership in advancing the H₂ industry.

H₂ as a decarbonization solution. H₂ and its derivatives are crucial for decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors, replacing emissions-intensive gases and producing sustainable fuels, chemicals, and fertilizers. Electrolyzers designed, constructed, and certified to rigorous standards ensure the safe production of these clean molecules for industries with the highest decarbonization challenges.

“To boost market confidence and trust amongst industry participants, we need to standardize large-scale electrolyzer systems. This helps to reduce uncertainties and risks when integrating new assets with existing refineries or in greenfield renewable energy projects. This ensures safety, quality, reliability, and affordability of these projects,” said Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President and Regional Director, Northern Europe, Energy Systems at DNV.

“About 30 years ago, we applied a similar approach in the wind energy industry. Now, we are collaborating with industry partners to develop cross-sector standards that ensure the safe scaling of renewable H₂.”

“This new standard provides a comprehensive validation framework, crucial for establishing a global electrolyzer industry for renewable H₂,” added Magnus Killingland, Global Segment Lead for H₂ and Ammonia, Energy Systems at DNV. “By enabling cost reductions through standardization, it ensures H₂’s viability as a clean molecule for the hardest-to-abate sectors.”

DNV’s certification and verification services, accredited under ISO 17020/ISO 17065, provide stakeholders—investors, regulators, and end-users—with confidence in the quality and safety of H₂ systems. These services ensure compliance with regulations such as the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED 2014/68/EU) and standards like ISO 22734.

“DNV is at the forefront of creating standards and certification schemes for renewable H₂ production. These efforts are critical for enabling global decarbonization,” said Peter Paschke, Global Lead – Power-to-X, Energy Systems at DNV. “For companies participating in the recently announced EU Innovation Fund H₂ auction, where the ISO 22734 standard is to be complied with, such certifications will be pivotal for success.”

Fostering a safe and sustainable H₂ market. With the introduction of DNV-ST-J301 and its complementary service specifications, DNV offers the industry a cohesive framework to evaluate electrolyzers and power-to-x facilities comprehensively. This approach ensures safety, supports cost efficiency, and builds transparency and accountability in the rapidly evolving H₂ sector.