Hydrogen Safety from a Network Perspective

Hydrogen has been identified as a key gas in helping Australia meet its obligations as a signatory under the Paris Agreement. There is significant potential for hydrogen to de-carbonise existing natural gas networks through the blending of hydrogen with natural gas and the replacement of natural gas completely with hydrogen. In particular, the potential exists for the use of hydrogen in hard to abate industries where high temperature processes are involved. The challenge that remains is the conveyance of hydrogen through transmission and distribution pipelines to these industries and the conversion of existing gas fired appliances and design of new gas fired appliances while ensuring safety.

This presentation will focus on the impact of both hydrogen blended natural gas and hydrogen on transmission and distribution pipelines and supporting equipment as well as the impact of hydrogen on gas fired appliances. Consideration will also be given to necessary changes to infrastructure to ensure safe conveyance and utilisation of hydrogen. Furthermore, the implications of hydrogen gas quality on the operation of hydrogen fuel cells will be considered. An update will also be provided on the revision of the natural gas quality standard AS4564 and how this standard relates to hydrogen blended natural gas.