DNV Releases New Standard to Enhance Safety and Scalability of Electrolyser Systems in Hydrogen Production

(IN BRIEF) DNV has released the DNV-ST-J301 Electrolyser Systems standard, setting a benchmark for the safe design, construction, and operation of electrolysers used in hydrogen production. This standard provides a comprehensive, risk-based framework to ensure safety and scalability throughout the hydrogen production lifecycle. It integrates with global regulations and supports the industry’s growth by addressing the unique risks of hydrogen production. Complementary services, including certification for power-to-x equipment and sustainability verification, further enhance the framework. DNV’s efforts aim to promote safe, efficient, and cost-effective hydrogen production, supporting global decarbonization goals.

(PRESS RELEASE) BÆRUM, 10-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — DNV has introduced the DNV-ST-J301 Electrolyser Systems standard, establishing a benchmark for the safe design, construction, and operation of electrolyser systems used in hydrogen production. Integrated with other DNV recommended practices and global regulatory frameworks, this new standard aims to support the hydrogen industry’s growth by ensuring safety and efficiency in the production of hydrogen and its derivatives through water electrolysis.

The DNV-ST-J301 standard addresses the unique risks associated with hydrogen production, providing a comprehensive, risk-based framework that covers the entire lifecycle of electrolyser systems. It consolidates essential safety requirements into a single, streamlined document, offering the hydrogen industry clear guidance for achieving safe and scalable operations. The launch of this standard coincides with the upcoming EU Innovation Fund hydrogen auction, where certifications are expected to play a key role in project success.

Key Features of the DNV-ST-J301 Standard: The new standard provides a robust framework for managing the risks of hydrogen production using electrolysers, detailing safety requirements for system design, construction, and operation. By focusing on risk severity, the standard ensures that compliance is both effective and cost-efficient. Additionally, it addresses the integration of electrolysers at the plant level, supporting early risk mitigation for projects and providing long-term cost savings for developers.

This standard is the result of a joint industry project (JIP) involving 30 global partners, and it aligns with best practices and emerging global regulations for hydrogen technologies.

Complementary Guidance and Certifications: The DNV-ST-J301 standard is part of a broader set of services, including the Verification and Certification of Power-to-X Equipment (DNV-SE-0674 and DNV-SE-0656), and the verification of hydrogen production’s environmental sustainability (DNV-SE-0654). DNV also plans to release DNV-RP-J302, a recommended practice for evaluating electrolyser performance, in early 2025.

Hydrogen as a Decarbonization Solution: Hydrogen plays a critical role in decarbonizing industries that are challenging to electrify, replacing emissions-heavy gases and contributing to sustainable fuel, chemical, and fertilizer production. Electrolysers that are designed, certified, and operated under rigorous standards ensure the safe and efficient production of hydrogen for these high-impact sectors.

Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President at DNV, highlighted the importance of standardized electrolyser systems, saying, “We need to reduce uncertainties and risks when integrating new hydrogen assets with existing infrastructure. Standardization ensures safety, quality, reliability, and affordability for these projects.”

Magnus Killingland, Global Segment Lead for Hydrogen and Ammonia at DNV, added, “This new standard validates the global electrolyser industry for renewable hydrogen, enabling cost reductions and ensuring hydrogen’s viability as a clean solution for hard-to-abate sectors.”

Peter Paschke, Global Lead – Power-to-X at DNV, emphasized the role of DNV’s certifications in the success of projects, especially in the context of the EU Innovation Fund hydrogen auction. “DNV’s standards and certifications are essential for global decarbonization efforts and will play a pivotal role in the success of hydrogen projects.”

With the introduction of DNV-ST-J301 and complementary service specifications, DNV continues to lead the way in fostering a safe and sustainable hydrogen market, offering a comprehensive framework to assess electrolysers and power-to-x facilities.

Media Contacts:

Neil James Slater
Head of Media Relations, Energy Systems
Phone: +442038165702
contact.energysystems@dnv.com

Magnus Killingland
Global Segment Lead Hydrogen, Ammonia and Sustainable Fuels
Phone: +4799602690
Magnus.Killingland@dnv.com

Peter Paschke
Senior Principal Engineer/Project Manager
Phone: +4579128653
contact.energysystems@dnv.com

Penda Sall
Media Relations Advisor
contact.energysystems@dnv.com

SOURCE: DNV