Setting up of a centre concering safety regulations for hydrogen and fuel cell systems - phase 1

The purpose of many Danish hydrogen projects is demonstration or production of appliances or components. DGC is participating in a number of projects as an independent consultant in order to ensure that the products are designed according to all safety regulations. At various stages in the development of any project, the products need to go through new assessments to make certain that the final product will meet all existing regulations. In the case of fuel cell systems, for instance, the requirements of the Gas Appliances Directive as well as the Danish Gas Regulations must be met. At the moment, there are no dedicated safety testing facilities for hydrogen and fuel cells in Denmark. Due to the limited number of activities in this area it is doubtful whether such testing facilities would be commercially viable. In spite of this, it should be contemplated to set up testing facilities in Denmark, as there may be spin-off activities in the form of a closer contact between producers and laboratories in the development phase, knowledge preparedness and, consequently, improved possibilities for consulting. It would also be easier to actively participate in standardisation work and to influence the standards in accordance with Danish interests. This project shall determine the need and the possibilities for a centre concerning safety regulations for hydrogen and fuel cell systems. This centre should participate in all phases of product development, from design to testing of the final appliance. A centre like that could be an activity for Danish Gas Technology Centre, who has relevant experience in the area through its work as Notified Body according to the Gas Appliances Directive, as test laboratory in gas technology, and as safety adviser in the hydrogen area. The project consists of the following elements: 1. Determination of need for consultancy and test concerning safety regulations. This will be done by means of a questionnaire and interviews with producers and authorities in the Danish market. 2. Specification of relevant standards for appliances and components. Identification of missing standards or adaptation of existing standards to the needs in the Danish market. 3. Workshop with producers and authorities. Before the workshop an interim report with an outline of the above points 1. and 2. 4. Final reporting. The project will have a duration of a maximum of six months in order to be able to involve the various players in the best possible way