Hydrogenstandards
review
INTEGRATING HYDROGEN INTO NEW ZEALAND’S
ENERGY LANDSCAPE
MAY 2023

Standards New ZealandTechnical Advisory Group representation
This report was prepared by Standards New Zealand following a technical standards review. The review resulted in a suiteof hydrogen and related equipment standards recommendations, determined by Technical Advisory Group (TAG) P3652
convened by Standards New Zealand on behalf of WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety.
The membership of this group was approved by the New Zealand Standards Approval Board and appointed by the
New Zealand Standards Executive under the Standards and Accreditation Act 2015. The TAG consisted of representatives
from the following nominating organisations:
BOC Limited

Hiringa Energy

BP New Zealand

HyPotential Limited

Callaghan Innovation

Master Electricians

Certified Energy Ltd

New Zealand Hydrogen Council

PEC (formerly Gallagher) Fuel Systems

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise

GasNZ

Ports of Auckland

Gas Industry Company

WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety

GNS Science

WorleyH2H Energy

Z Energy

Acknowledgement
Standards New Zealand gratefully acknowledges the contribution of time and expertise from all those involvedin contributing to the development of this report.
Figure 8 was kindly provided by Robert Holt, Team Leader: Electrical Engineering (Callaghan Innovation).
Figure B5 was kindly provided by Aaron Webb, Director, PwC New Zealand.

Disclaimer
The designations and presentation of materials featured herein are provided on an “as is” basis, for informational purposes
only, without any conditions, warranties or undertakings, either express or implied, from its officials and agents, including
but not limited to warranties of accuracy, completeness and fitness for a particular purpose or use of such content.
The information contained herein does not necessarily represent the views of all employees of Standards New Zealand, nor
is it an endorsement of any project, product or service provider. The designations and materials do not imply the expressionof any opinion on the part of Standards New Zealand concerning the legal status of any region, country, territory, city or area
or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of frontiers or boundaries.
Before initiating the adoption of any international standard mentioned in this report, Standards New Zealand will ensure thelatest version is used.
Produced by Standards New Zealand, PO Box 1473, Wellington 6140.
Telephone: (03) 943 4259, Website: www.standards.govt.nz.

ISBN (PDF) 978-1-77691-758-7
Hydrogen standards review

Standards New ZealandContents
IFC
Technical Advisory Group representation�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
ii
IFC
Acknowledgement�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
ii
IFC
Disclaimer����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
ii
Foreword�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������1
1. Executive summary�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 2
2. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������9
3. Developing a hydrogen supply chain prioritisation plan������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 16
4. Hydrogen standards implementation strategy����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������28
5. Next actions������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������33
Appendix A – Hydrogen standards review�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������34
Appendix B – Revised New Zealand hydrogen standards framework 2022�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������37
Appendix C – Standards review commentary�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������43
Appendix D – Nomenclature���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 48
Appendix E – Referenced documents�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������52

TablesTable 1 – Integrating hydrogen into New Zealand’s regulatory framework����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
Table 2 – Key safety considerations – Very high risk�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������22
Table 3 – LH2 vs CGH2���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24
Table 4 – Stage 1: Standards implementation�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������28
Table 5 – Stage 2: Standards implementation����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������30
Table 6 – Stage 3: Standards implementation����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������30
Table 7 – Standards adoption����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������31
Table 8 – Next actions����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������33
Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������43
Table D1 – Unit conversions������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 50
Table D2 – Hydrogen physical properties – Fuel comparator������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 50
Table D3 – Hydrogen compressibility factor��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������51

Hydrogen standards review | iii

Standards New ZealandFiguresFigure 1 – Decarbonisation through hydrogen integration��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3
Figure 2 – Hydrogen ecosystem������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 11
Figure 3 – Microgrid interface����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
Figure 4 – Producing hydrogen using UV light irradiation�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 14
Figure 5 – Stationary energy and storage�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������17
Figure 6 – Semi-centralised hydrogen distribution������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 18
Figure 7 – Decentralised hydrogen distribution������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 19
Figure 8 – HyLink renewable energy system�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������20
Figure 9 – Artist’s impression of C-Job Naval Architects’ design carrier for LH2 Europe�������������������������������������������������������������������21
Figure 10 – LH2 and CGH2: A comparison of energy densities�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25
Figure 11 – Supply chain standards prioritisation�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������26
Figure 12 – Cargo shipping industry evolution����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������27
Figure A1 – Standards review prioritisation plan������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������34
Figure A2 – Hydrogen standards implementation strategy�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������35
Figure B1 – P2G (power-to-gas) hydrogen supply chain�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������38
Figure B2 – Hydrogen network infrastructure transition����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������39
Figure B3 – New Zealand hydrogen standards framework������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 40
Figure B4 – International standardisation and regulatory bodies in the field of hydrogen, fuel cells and their linkages����������� 41
Figure B5 – New Zealand current hydrogen regulatory framework���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������42

iv | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New ZealandForeword
New Zealand is preparing for its largest energy transition in more than
100 years, with hydrogen set to play a key role. To ensure standards andcompliance mechanisms are in place to enable the safe supply and use ofhydrogen as an alternative to fossil-based fuel sources and industrial feedstock,
WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety commissioned a review of relevant
New Zealand, joint Australian/New Zealand, and international standards (seeAppendix A). This report is the result of that review. Its recommendations andproposed strategy are aligned to a multi-year prioritisation plan, based upon astaged approach to adoptions, as dictated by the needs of the supply chain.
Although hydrogen is a highly versatile energy vector,

The petrochemical industry, including gas, transport fuels

there are many challenges to producing it at scale andand distribution, electrical and mechanical engineers,having infrastructure capable of supporting it. Therefore,

the New Zealand Hydrogen Council and key government

the review considered the use of hydrogen in its gaseous

agency regulators are represented.

and liquefied states, as well as other two-way carriers
for hydrogen transmission, storage and export such as
toluene-MCH (methylcyclohexane) and ammonia so thatthe hydrogen standards framework would reflect these
supply chain considerations.

The framework focuses on 10 key application-specificareas aligned to the needs of the supply chain. As such, theframework is a point of reference on the current regulatory
state in New Zealand relative to hydrogen. It identifies
areas where gaps currently exist and offers solutions

Also, hydrogen’s application cuts across multiple sectors(contingent on technological advancements) through theand up to six ministerial portfolios, with a number of

adoption of international standards to ensure the removal

Acts and regulations playing an integral role in theof barriers to international trade and investment.

value chain. This legislation will need to be addressed inconjunction with any adoption of standards.1 However, forthe purposes of this report, the focus is on those directly
related to WorkSafe’s remit. They include gas (safety andmeasurement), electricity (safety), health and safety atwork (hazardous substances), and pressure equipment,
cranes and passenger ropeways (PECPR).

The technical advisory group has drawn upon a wealthof industry experience and knowledge gained during
members’ participation in international standards
development committees relating to hydrogen. The latest
research and learnings from our Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development (OECD) partners – whoare advancing their own implementation strategies –In the first instance, WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy

have been considered, and Standards New Zealand

Safety wanted to ensure that standards solutions are

believes the recommendations outlined in this report

fit for purpose and support a framework of compliancereflect an appropriate alignment with our international

appropriate to the triggers (identified by the regulator)

trading partners.

relative to each application. To that end, Standards
New Zealand convened a technical advisory group, P3652,
of subject matter experts within the energy sector.

1

To address the bigger picture of regulatory settings alignment, MBIE – Energy and Resource Markets has established the Interagency Hydrogen Working Group.

Hydrogen standards review | 1

Standards New Zealand

1. Executive summary
Hydrogen has the potential to play a significant role in advancing
New Zealand’s transition from fossil fuels to a decarbonised future (seeFigure 1). It could possibly replace or, in the intermediate term, supplement
natural gas (NG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as fuel gas. This extends
to transport fuel (including aviation) and an industrial chemical feedstock fordomestic use and export.
New Zealand has a legislated target of net zero greenhouse

Irrespective of scenarios that will enable New Zealand’s

gas emissions (other than from biogenic methane) byhydrogen future, all possible future paths have a critical

2050, and a target under the Paris Agreement2 to reducebottleneck within the current regulatory system. The

emissions by 30 per cent below 2005 emissions byexisting system was not built to cater for a hydrogen-2030. The Government has also set a target of 100 per

based economy, nor facilitate large-scale hydrogen uptake.

cent renewable electricity by 2030. New Zealand has

Hydrogen is a hazardous substance that can, for example,

considerable renewable energy resources that could

explode if it is not managed carefully.

be used to sustainably produce hydrogen as a nextgeneration fuel.

Looking through a health-and-safety-at-work lens, risksarise across the entire supply chain from production,

The Government is also focused on supporting thriving

through distribution and transportation, to on-site storage

and sustainable regions. Hydrogen infrastructure built

and refuelling facilities. Currently, these risks are managed

upon a region’s existing energy sector, skills and supply

through overlapping regulatory regimes (see Table 1) thatchains could enable regions such as Taranaki, Northland

cover gas safety and measurement, health and safety

and Southland to grow new business opportunities

surrounding pressure equipment, electrical safety, land

based on low-carbon hydrogen, and create new jobs.

transport – dangerous goods and health and safety at

However, from a regulatory perspective this is not withoutwork (covering major hazard facilities and hazardous

its challenges; the application of hydrogen cuts acrosssubstances). Yet there is no coordinated cross-agency

multiple sectors means a number of regulations will be

guidance to provide clarity for regulators and clear,affected in areas such as gas (safety and measurement),

concise compliance requirements for equipment suppliers,

electricity (safety), health and safety at work (hazardous

installers and end users to enable the safe integration ofsubstances), and pressure equipment, cranes andhydrogen into the New Zealand supply chain. This causes

passenger ropeways (PECPR).

delays in MBIE’s processing of applications for exemption
by industry, which consequently not only impacts project
development timelines, but also makes New Zealand lessattractive (in comparison to other competing countries) forinvestment in equipment and infrastructure necessary toestablish and support a thriving hydrogen industry.

2

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. It was adopted by 196 parties at the United Nations Climate Change
Conference (COP21) in Paris, France, on 12 December 2015. It entered into force on 4 November 2016.

2 | Hydrogen standards review

the New ZealandeconomyENERGY GENERATION

Standards New Zealand

ENERGY SYSTEMAPPLICATION

Decarbonise mobility

CCU

Menth

Urea

Decarbonise
industrial process

Harness our renewableenergy potential

Energy storage anddistribution

Decarbonise gas forheating and power

Resilient energy system

Energy export opportunity
Figure 3: Hydrogen’s role in the New Zealand economy
Figure 1 – Decarbonisation through hydrogen integration© MBIE

Hydrogen standards review | 3

13

Standards New Zealand

Table 1 – Integrating hydrogen into New Zealand’s regulatory framework
Applicable WorkSafe New Zealand legislation
Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010
Health and Safety in Employment (Pressure Equipment, Cranes, and Passenger Ropeways) Regulations 1999
Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 Rule 45001/1
Health and Safety at Work Act 2015:• Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016
• Health and Safety at Work (Major Hazard Facilities) Regulations 2016
• Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017

Addressing regulatory settings
Today, most firms engaged in the production of

The final version of the report was prepared and submittedhydrogen are, to a large degree, operating underto the ministers affected in September 2022 and provides

exemptions that fall within WorkSafe – Energy Safety’s

a starting point for agencies to make legislative andregulatory mandate. This is clearly a less than desirable

regulatory changes in their respective areas so as tooutcome, given the concerns raised above. To that

advance the hydrogen industry and support New Zealand’send, the MBIE – Energy and Resource Markets teamclimate change response.

has agreed to instigate a programme of work (led byPricewaterhouseCoopers [PwC]) to address the regulatory
settings pertaining to hydrogen.
MBIE established a cross-agency working group in March
2022. Its role is to ensure that the current regulatory
settings are fit for purpose as they are critical in facilitating
the safe introduction of new hydrogen technologies andnovel applications of hydrogen and promoting domestic
and international investment in hydrogen in New Zealand.
The Acts and regulations that need to be reviewed
primarily fall within the portfolios of six separate ministers:• the Minister of Energy and Resources• the Minister for the Environment• the Minister for Building and Construction• the Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety

The scope of the report included:• identifying all the relevant Acts, regulations andstandards that impact the regulation of hydrogenin New Zealand, organised into categories such astransport, commercial, and health & safety• a definition of “fit for purpose” and a criterion toevaluate how fit for purpose the current regulatory
settings are for hydrogen• an evaluation of how fit for purpose the current
regulatory settings are for hydrogen, including
identification of current regulatory gaps, and barriers
that need to be considered as the industry matures• a systems-approach analysis of the impacts (short,medium, and long term) of the current regulatory
system on the hydrogen industry, the economy, iwi,
international relations, the environment, and so on,• the Minister of Transport, andbased on different potential future scenarios outlined• the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

by the modelling completed in the hydrogen standards
implementation strategy or “roadmap” (see Figure A2)

The working group was tasked with providing input into
a report prepared by PwC on New Zealand’s hydrogen
regulatory pathway and then signalling the next steps on
the development of a regulatory work programme for novel
uses of hydrogen.

4 | Hydrogen standards review• consideration of the alignment with international
standards and good practice in order to ensure thesettings support trade in hydrogen and hydrogentechnology

Standards New Zealand• clarification and confirmation of the roles and

The desired outcome of such a publication would be toresponsibilities of the different government

provide sectoral assurance and certainty that suppliers,

departments, agencies and co-regulators in the

installers, on-site personnel and end users have a clear

regulation of hydrogen, andunderstanding of their compliance and safety obligations.

• high-level advice on any regulatory changes thatneed to be made (outlined by priority), including

The publication could also be a valuable source of step-bystep guidance for first responders dealing with hydrogen-corresponding timelines and how they might alignrelated incidents involving leaks, fires, burns and so on.

with any broader regulatory reviews that are being

TAG P3652 considers the following agencies to beundertaken (for example, in the health and safety
portfolio).

Regulatory alignment recommendation
To supplement the above review of regulatory settings,
TAG P3652 deems it necessary that appropriate crossagency policy alignment occurs in the form of a jointly
developed compliance guideline or code of practice (CoP).
The proposed publication would effectively act as aninterim compliance stopgap, thereby enabling players
within the energy sector to operate (currently under

instrumental in the development of the above publication:
MBIE (Energy Markets, Standards New Zealand,
Building System Performance), the Energy Efficiency
and Conservation Authority (EECA), the Environmental
Protection Agency, WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety,
the Gas Industry Company, Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and Fireand Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).
Standards New Zealand suggests that the developmentof a compliance publication occurs in parallel with the
adoption of the suite of standards solutions outlined within
this report.

regulatory exception on a per project basis) safely within
this environment.

Hydrogen standards review | 5

Standards New ZealandStandards recommendations
Projects 1 and 2 (production & purification and green credentialling and fuel station equipment & design) identified thefollowing international standards adoptions for the regulator to consider:
Identical adoptions of seven ISO/IEC3 standards
ISO/IEC 17050-1

Conformity assessment – Supplier’s declaration of conformity – Part 1:
General requirements

ISO 14687

Hydrogen fuel quality – Product specification

ISO 19880-3

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 3: Valves

ISO 19880-5

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 5: Dispenser hoses and hose assemblies

ISO 19881

Gaseous hydrogen – Land vehicle fuel containers

ISO 19882

Gaseous hydrogen – Thermally activated pressure relief devices for compressedhydrogen vehicle fuel containers

ISO 26142

Hydrogen detection apparatus – Stationary applications

Adoptions with modifications of five ISO/IEC standards
ISO 16110-1

Hydrogen generators using fuel processing technologies – Part 1: Safety

ISO 16110-2

Hydrogen generators using fuel processing technologies – Part 2: Test methods
for performanceISO 22734

Hydrogen generators using water electrolysis – Industrial, commercial, andresidential applications

ISO TS 19883

Safety of pressure swing adsorption systems for hydrogen separation and purification

ISO 19880-1

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 1: General requirements

TAG P3652 also suggested that the regulator consider if the following joint and New Zealand cited standards could
accommodate hydrogen and align with the international adoptions:
Revision of 10 joint Australian/New Zealand standards

3

AS/NZS IEC 60079-0:2019

Explosive atmospheres – Part 0: Equipment – General requirements

AS/NZS IEC 60079-33:2012

Explosive atmospheres – Part 33: Equipment protection by special protection ‘s’

AS/NZS 60079.10.1:2009

Explosive atmospheres – Classification of areas – Explosive gas atmospheres

AS/NZS 60079.11:2011

Explosive atmospheres – Part 11: Equipment protection by intrinsic safety ‘i’

AS/NZS 60079.14:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 14: Design selection, erection and initial inspection

AS/NZS 60079.17:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenanceInternational Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

6 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Revision of 10 joint Australian/New Zealand standards continued
AS/NZS 60079.18:2016

Explosive atmospheres – Part 18: Equipment protection by encapsulation ‘m’

AS/NZS 60079.29.2:2016

Explosive atmospheres – Part 29.2: Gas detectors – Selection, installation, use andmaintenance of detectors for flammable gases and oxygen

AS/NZS 3800:2020

Electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres – Repair and overhaul

AS/NZS 3820:2020

Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment

Revision of two New Zealand standards
NZS 5263:2003

Gas detection and odorization

NZS 7901:2014

Electricity and gas industries – Safety management systems for public safety

Projects 3 and 4 (mobility & safety and network distribution & inspection) identified the following international standards
adoptions for the regulator to consider:
Identical adoptions of eight international standards
ISO 11114-4

Transportable gas cylinders – Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials
with gas contents – Part 4: Test methods for selecting steels resistant tohydrogen embrittlement

ISO 16111

Transportable gas storage devices – Hydrogen absorbed in reversible metal hydride

ISO 19880-8

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 8: Fuel quality control

ISO 17268

Gaseous hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices

ISO 23273

Fuel cell road vehicles – Safety specifications – Protection against hydrogen hazards
for vehicles fuelled with compressed hydrogen

ISO 21266-2

Road vehicles – Compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2) and hydrogen/natural gas
blends fuel systems – Part 2: Test methods

ASME B31.12

Hydrogen piping and pipelines

ASME B31.3

Process piping

Adoptions with modifications of three ISO/IEC standards
IEC 62282-3-200

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-200: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance
test methods

IEC 62282-3-201

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-201: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance
test methods for small fuel cell power systems

IEC 62282-3-300

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-300: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Installation

Hydrogen standards review | 7

Standards New Zealand

TAG P3652 also suggested that the regulator consider if the following joint and cited standards could accommodatehydrogen and align with the international adoptions:
Revision of 12 joint Australian/New Zealand and cited standards
AS 2885.0:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 0: General requirements

AS/NZS 2885.1:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 1: Design and construction

AS/NZS 2885.2:2020

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 2: Welding

AS/NZS 2885.3:1997

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Operation and maintenance

AS/NZS 2885.4:2016

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 4: Submarine pipeline systems

AS/NZS 2885.5:2012

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 5: Field pressure testing

AS/NZS 2885.6:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 6: Pipeline safety management

AS/NZS 4645.1:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 1: Network management

AS/NZS 4645.2:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 2: Steel pipe systems

AS/NZS 4645.3:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 3: Plastics pipe systems

AS/NZS 5601.1:2013

Gas installations – Part 1: General installations

AS/NZS 5601.2:2020

Gas installations – Part 2: LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for
non-propulsive purposes

Revision of six New Zealand standards
NZS 5255:2014 + A1

Safety verification of existing gas installations

NZS 5256:2014

Verification of the safety of gas appliances

NZS 5259: 2015

Gas measurement

NZS 5263:2003

Gas detection and odorization

NZS 5266:2014

Safety of gas appliances

NZS 5442:2008

Specification for reticulated natural gas

For Standards New Zealand, identical adoptions and minor modifications to ISO/IEC standards for New Zealandrequirements are generally straightforward in that they typically require only minor tweaks or clarifications. Specifically, thecover and other relevant pages are replaced and the foreword is used to identify regional modifications, leaving the original
document intact. Most standards adopted in this manner can be implemented relatively quickly – often within 12 months ofa project’s initiation.

8 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand2. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy
According to the Ministry for the Environment,4 New Zealand’s grossgreenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 1990 were 65,129.2 kilotonnes carbon
dioxide equivalent (kt CO2-e). Between 1990 and 2019, GHG emissions increased
by 17,188.6 kt CO2-e (26.4 per cent), reaching 82,317.9 kt CO2-e in 2019.5
Energy sector emissions in 2019, were the second largest

Green hydrogen also has the potential to become ancontributor to New Zealand’s gross emissions at 42 per

attractive future export earner for New Zealand, mostcent or 34,263.10 kt of carbon dioxide equivalent (ktlikely to countries such as South Korea and Japan, onceCO2-e). Outside of agriculture, energy presents some ofan economy of scale can be sufficiently realised for thethe biggest opportunities and challenges to decarbonisingvolumes required.

the domestic economy.

Hydrogen projects and studies under way in New ZealandMore than half of the energy sector’s emissions areinclude:attributed to transport. Other key contributors include• Callaghan Innovation on-site (nanogrid) hydrogen

manufacturing and construction, electricity generation,and fugitive emissions (for example, from the geothermal
and gas sector). Energy sector emissions are also known to
be closely linked with emissions from industrial processes,

production at Matiu/Somes island (since 2012)• Callaghan Innovation on-site (nanogrid) hydrogenproduction at Gracefield, Lower Hutt (since 2016)

such as the production of steel, cement, aluminium and• Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Hiringa Energy’s green

glass. It is believed these other processes contribute up tohydrogen project at Kapuni for urea production

6.5% of total energy sector emissions.
In conjunction with biofuels, green hydrogen6 isinternationally recognised as a key component in reducing
emissions and is set to play a major role in supporting thedecarbonisation of New Zealand’s industrial processes,
process heat and transportation.
For New Zealand, hydrogen offers excellent potential for
medium-to-longer term energy storage, when produced
using renewable electricity. It is a strong contender in thenear term for decarbonisation of the heavy transport fleet• Hiringa Energy’s hydrogen fuelling network –North Island at present, with nationwide plans• Halcyon Power – Obayashi and the Tuaropaki Trust pilothydrogen plant• Ports of Auckland’s hydrogen production and refuelling
facility paired with hydrogen bus trial for Auckland
Transport• FirstGas’s Hydrogen Pipeline Feasibility study,
published in March 2021
• Contact Energy/Meridian Energy’s study to investigate

and in the medium- to longer-term shipping, as well as

the value of large-scale hydrogen development inaviation.

Southland.

A number of industrial processes (including the productionof methanol and urea) use NG as a feedstock to convert
to hydrogen. Green hydrogen produced from renewableelectricity can instead be used as a clean feedstock to
reduce emissions.

4

MfE 2021.

5

From 1990 to 2019, the average annual growth in gross emissions was 0.8 per cent (MfE, 2021).

6‘Green hydrogen’ is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, using renewable electricity.

Hydrogen standards review | 9

Standards New Zealand

The hydrogen ecosystem and energy transition
The hydrogen ecosystem (see Figure 2) has many

In transportation, hydrogen fuel-cell technology is now

constituents, though a logical starting point to understandinternationally entering the market, and high-energy

this ecosystem is to consider the existing supply chain.

density requirements such as those for shipping andLeveraging existing NG available gas infrastructure
network and enabling it to integrate with low emission

aviation are being addressed through the developmentof synthetic fuels.

gas-fuel mixes (such as biomethane and hydrogen)We are also seeing the emergence of hydrogen-fuelledcontributes to building economy of scale. Additionally,

combined heat and power (CHP) systems. They assist

electrolysers can enable us to take advantage ofwith industry decarbonisation and are very effective inconstrained renewable sources.

applications when other energy sources are constrained

The keys to unlocking opportunity for the hydrogen supply
chain are:• understanding where existing capability can be
expanded with minimal effort to include hydrogen, and• raising awareness for companies that are not specialist
hydrogen technology providers, but which havecomplementary skill sets, such as those that exist
within New Zealand’s existing energy sector, thenleveraging those skills and evolving them to support
New Zealand’s energy transition.

10 | Hydrogen standards review(for example, following a nuclear disaster) as they provide
low- to high-grade heat, as well as electricity.

Standards New Zealand

POWER GENERATION
E.G. GAS TURBINES
AND FUEL CELLSHYDROGEN FOR INDUSTRY/HYDROGEN FROM INDUSTRYRELESNSMISSIONETWORK

POWER GENERATION
E.G. GAS TURBINES
AND FUEL CELLSHYDROGEN FOR INDUSTRY/HYDROGEN FROM INDUSTRYONSHORERENEWABLESTIDAL LAGOONHYDROGEN FORHEATINGOFFSHORE WINDHYDROGEN FORHEATINGGAS PEAKING PLANT/POWER GENERATIONPRESSURE
REDUCTIONSTATIONHYDROGEN FOR
COOKINGOFFSHORE ELECTROLYSER(NATURAL GAS PLATFORM
REPURPOSED)LOWPRESSURE
DISTRIBUTIONNETWORKPRESSURE
REDUCTIONSTATION

ELECTROLYSERSGAS PEAKING PLANT/POWER GENERATIONHYDROGEN FOR
COOKING

TRANSMISSIONNETWORK

NATURAL GASEXTRACTION

LOW PRESSURE
DISTRIBUTIONNETWORKOTHER SOURCES OF HYDROGEN
E.G. COAL GASIFICATIONHYDROGEN FOR
POWER

SHORT TERM
STORAGEHYDROGEN FOR
INTER-SEASONALEXISTING METHANE
TRANSPORTSTORAGE
TRANSMISSION NETWORK(UNDERGROUNDCAVERNS)HYDROGEN FOR
MATERIAL HANDLINGHYDROGEN FOR
POWER

SHORT TERM
STORAGECARBONSEQUESTRATIONINTER-SEASONAL
STORAGE(UNDERGROUNDCAVERNS)HYDROGEN FORMETHANE REFORMEREXPORT

HYDROGEN FOR
TRANSPORTHYDROGEN FOR
MATERIAL HANDLINGCCS TRANSPORTINFRASTRUCTURE
HYDROGEN FOREXPORT

Sourced blue hydrogen

Sourced green hydrogen

Hydrogen system© Arup37
Figure 14: Hydrogen in an Integrated Energy System

36

Sourced blue hydrogen
Figure 2 – Hydrogen ecosystem© MBIE

Sourced green hydrogen

Hydrogen system© Arup37

Hydrogen standards review | 11

Standards New ZealandHybrid microgrids
A parallel path to sustainability that uses both renewable

A microgrid can connect and disconnect from the gridand clean-carbon-based methods must be developed

to enable it to operate in both grid-connected or island

because new and renewable forms of energy that emit lessmode7 and microgrids are generation agnostic. Low- or

carbon dioxide might not materialise quickly enough or at

medium-voltage grids are typically not geographicallya price that is conducive to widespread consumer uptake.

spread out. For residential applications, the term

Hybrid microgrids offer that parallel pathway.

‘nanogrid’ is used for low-voltage grids that typically

A microgrid (Figure 3) is a group of interconnected loads

serve a single dwelling and are less than 50 Kw.

and distributed energy resources within clearly defined

For more information on the integration of hydrogenelectrical boundaries that acts as a single controlled entity

involving microgrids, see Stage 3 – Decentralised hydrogenwith respect to the grid. Producing hydrogen on-site using

distribution.

a variety of distributed energy resources that feed into
microgrids is a particularly useful way that renewableenergy can be generated in remote regions. Examples ofremote regions include islands and farms outside the reachand therefore financial viability of connecting to a regional
electricity network.

7

Mueller, 2018.

12 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

CHP-natural gas*

Fuel cell

Controllable load
Controllable
generation

Distribution substation

Limited or non-controllable
generation*Refers to ‘Combined heat and power’.
Also known as ‘Co-Generation’, whereby
the production of electricity and heatoccurs simultaneously from a primaryfuel source – such as natural gas.

Local electricity
network
Back-upgenerator set

UPS(Uninterruptible
power supply)

Energy storage(thermal/electrical)

Figure 3 – Microgrid interface

Hydrogen standards review | 13

Standards New Zealand

The role of energy vectors in hydrogen production
According to Kellogg Brown & Root,8 “Energy vectors [are]electronics manufacturing, metalworking, welding, medical

aptly described as the human made energy that is notuses (hydrogen peroxide) and food production (turning

directly usable, but which must be extracted or produced

unsaturated fats into to saturated oils and fats, including

before being transported and stored in appropriatehydrogenated vegetable oils like margarine).

quantities for a prolonged use over time, in applications

Other known methods of producing hydrogen with athat are not always calculable in advance.”

high-Faradic efficiency include using ultraviolet (UV) light

The use of renewable energy resources with integration ofirradiation as an energy source. The process involves theenergy vectors into the flow chain is pivotal for promoting

conversion of toluene (a common paint thinner) and water

sustainable energy systems. Examples of momentous

to methylcyclohexane (MCH).9 The conversion of tolueneenergy vectors with plentiful potential for realisation of a(see Figure 4) occurs through a photoelectrochemical

global comprehensive energy system include electricity,

reaction in the presence of niobium-doped strontium
titanate (Nb:SrTiO3) photoelectrodes. MCH is considered

synthetic-fuels and heat-transfer fluids.

by many as a promising hydrogen carrier that enables

There are many sources and ways of producing hydrogenhydrogen to be harnessed as an alternate fuel source.

as a fuel. It can be used as a feedstock to produce
chemicals such as methanol and ammonia. These

Other production pathways being researched include:

chemicals have desirable energy characteristics but• using microbes that use light to make hydrogenare less desirable in other respects. Alternatively, it can• converting biomass into gas or liquids, then separating

be combined with carbon dioxide to produce methane,

the hydrogen, andwhich can be injected into the NG network.

• using solar energy technologies to split hydrogen from

Hydrogen’s versatility for industrial applications extends

water molecules.

beyond ammonia production. It has been very effective
in creating petroleum (hydrocracking) as well as in

Hydrogen carrier

O2
UV light irradiation
H2O
NB:SrTiO3

Ionomer/Pt/
C assembly

Figure 4 – Producing hydrogen using UV light irradiation© MBIE

8

KBR, undated.

9

Kalousek, Wang, Minegishi, Hisatomi, Nakagawa, Oshima, Kobori, Kubota, and Domen, 2014.

14 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Key supply chain considerations
When it comes to choosing which method of hydrogenproduction is most appropriate, It is not the role of
TAG P3652 to pick winners, but there does need to bea starting point for investment in New Zealand’s energy
transition that is aligned with internationally recognised
good practice. To that end, there are two recognised andcommon ways of producing hydrogen as a fuel. These are
steam-methane reforming and electrolysis (splitting waterwith electricity).
For the purposes of this report (and in the first instance)
we focus on hydrogen supply chains that support transport
as well as industrial feedstock, because energy sector
emissions were identified as the second largest contributor
to New Zealand’s gross emissions.
There are many reasons for considering broader nontransport applications to maximise the potential for supply
chain engagement and growth of transport applications.
Reasons for including non-transport applications aresupply chain commonality across applications, maximising

Supply chain commonality across applications
Supply chains cut across applications in a mature energy
sector. Most aspects of the hydrogen supply chain will
support transport and non-transport aspects. Examples
include the electrolysis and storage supply chains, which
are common to multiple applications.

Maximising supply chain engagement
New Zealand is still very early in the process of transition,
so to gain greater traction in the marketplace, it is importantfor supply chain companies to be made aware of thebreadth of hydrogen-related applications so that they can:• appreciate the volume of activity, and• identify specific areas where their capabilities can bebest applied.

Reduction in costs through increased
activity levels

supply chain engagement, and the reduction in costs

By considering a wider variety of applications beyond

through increased activity levels.

transport, the supply chain will mature at a greater rate.
In doing so, the cost of products and services will reduce
as volumes increase and standardised approaches evolve,
thereby creating greater efficiencies in production.

15

Standards New Zealand3. Developing a hydrogen supply chainprioritisation plan
The basic premise is to concentrate initial efforts on three fundamental stages:
Stage 1 – Stationary energy and storage
Stage 2 – Semi-centralised hydrogen distribution
Stage 3 – Decentralised hydrogen distribution.
Breaking core components of the hydrogen ecosystem

TAG P3652 accepts that adopting a staged approach tointo the three fundamental supply chain aspects helps

support an evolving hydrogen ecosystem is appropriate.

us target standards to specific applications and prioritise

It also acknowledges that despite this being a medium-the implementation of those standards relative to the way

to long-term perspective, there are current hydrogenthe system currently operates, whereby leveraging off as

demonstration projects (as well as other proposals such

much of the existing gas infrastructure as possible creates

as refuelling stations under consideration) where thea more attractive investment proposition.

regulator(s) will make allowances by exception until
such time as an appropriate compliance framework
is embedded.

16

Standards New ZealandStage 1 – Stationary energy and storage
Stage 1 (see Figure 5) considers a two-pronged approach.

targeted at heavy-transport fleets, including shipping,i. The first prong involves leveraging off key strategic

rail and the aviation sector. Excess hydrogen can beassets that support the existing NG network (centeredin Taranaki) and directly feeding large consumers(medium to large-scale industry) with blended gas forindustrial needs.
ii. The second prong includes developing multi-megawatt-stored and converted back into electricity as demand
dictates or to another form of energy carrier (ammonia
or toluene-MCH) for either export or conversion at thedestination. This approach gives assurance to hydrogensystems developers by ensuring long-term off-take.

capacity hydrogen facilities (powered by renewable

A compliance handbook or code of practice would provide

energy) in strategic locations, as well as leveraging off

the necessary overarching safety criteria and therefore

other regions, such as the geothermal-powered Halcyon

needs to be developed and embedded at the samehydrogen plant north of Taupo. High-purity hydrogen istime. (A staggered approach to international standards
adoptions will be required over the next 12 to 18 months.)

Renewable energy

Offshore gas field
carbon sequestration

Steam reformation and cracking

H₂ storage hub

Electrolyser
See Note

CH₄
Biomethane
plant

Electricity network

H₂
Blended gas network
NG+ H₂ + CH₄

Green H₂ distribution network

Existing NG Network

Offshore NG platform

Medium to heavy industry

Note
Hydrogen production could be regionally based multi
megawatt facilities, ideally positioned close to power
stations, or positioned near airports and container ports

Figure 5 – Stationary energy and storage10

10

Steam reformation and cracking imagery reflects technology examples and not necessarily government policy.

Hydrogen standards review | 17

Standards New ZealandStage 2 – Semi-centralised hydrogen distribution
Stage 2 (see Figure 6) seeks to support a semi-centralisedThis form of distribution would also be useful for fuelform of hydrogen distribution (where CGH2 pipeline

retailers wishing to offer hydrogen as an alternative fuelinfrastructural investments may be uneconomic or some

option for light-fleet customers at selected state highway

years away). It uses the existing road and rail network torefuelling sites.

mobilise liquid hydrogen (LH2) tanks and CGH2 tubetrailers and containerised units for smaller industrial
material-handling business and refuelling sites (withon-site conversion equipment) to support regionalcommercial transport needs.

Boil-offventBoil-offvent

350 bar> 5,000 psi

CGH₂- 40° CHigh compression &thermal management

700 bar> 10,000 psi

CGH₂- 40° CCGH₂ network

Figure 6 – Semi-centralised hydrogen distribution

18 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New ZealandStage 3 – Decentralised hydrogen distribution
Stage 3 (see Figure 7) occurs once the international

To mitigate concerns that the Electricity Authority

challenges of blending hydrogen and biomethane into themight have over unbalanced electricity networks andexisting natural gas network have been resolved (including

to address New Zealand’s carbon emission reduction

updating NZS 5442:2008 – Specification for reticulated

targets, the government is beginning to take a systems-

natural gas). This would mean a decentralised form ofbased approach to energy use. The outcome is an

distribution could now come into effect.

implementation of demand response–flexibility energy

It is expected that by FY 2023/24, international standards
for residential gas appliances will be far enough advanced
in terms of their review and development process for
adoption in New Zealand. The timing for this is crucial,because the move away from reliance on fossil fuels
and the impacts of climate change are affecting security

management policies, which are likely to require theadoption of common communication protocols. Electrical
distribution businesses (EDB) will be able to interface
with home energy management systems to balance thedemand side of the network, thereby creating greater
network certainty for all consumers through flexibility.

of electricity transmission supply,11 particularly during

This transition will turn consumers into prosumers

seasonal peak demand. These factors are contributing to(producers of energy) by using distributed generation

New Zealand experiencing a technological seismic shift(DG) within the home such as photovoltaics, electricin how we relate to energy use, in all its forms, in both

vehicles, on-site hydrogen generation and some homebusinesses and the home.

energy storage systems. This will enable the homeownerto interact with EDB in real time and help reduce day-today energy costs while at the same time mitigating the
likelihood of electricity-phase brownouts during peakdemand cycles.

230v ACElectricity grid

Piped hot water

Figure 7 – Decentralised hydrogen distribution

11

On Monday, 9 August 2021, about 34,000 customers experienced an electricity cut without warning. The biggest impact was felt in the Waikato region,
where more than 17,000 were customers disconnected. – Electricity Authority, 2021.

Hydrogen standards review | 19

Standards New Zealand

Blended distributed NG networks (in the first instance),

energy through an electrolyser and inverter that power hot

and progressing to pure CGH2, will play a fundamental rolewater and underfloor heating systems, and store electricalin supporting and helping to balance New Zealand’s futureenergy in a battery to use at peak times.

residential energy requirements. Figure 7 shows how this
scenario typically works.

The advantage of energy storage systems is that excess
electrical energy derived from multiple means of

The distributed gas network not only provides a fueldistributed generation could be sold back to the EDB whensource for residential gas appliances, but when it isrates within a given period are attractive enough to do so.

connected to an energy storage system (containing

This is essentially how an electricity consumer becomes

fuel-cell technology), hydrogen is converted to electricala prosumer.

WIND

HOT
WATER
ELECTROLYSER

UNDERGROUND STORAGEHOLDS 750 LITRES OF
HYDROGEN AT 3.3 BARG.
THE ENERGY AVAILABLE IS
APPROXIMATELY 8kWh (31MJ).

SOLARCOOKING

Figure 8 – HyLink renewable energy system© Callaghan Innovation

On-site hydrogen production
Local hydrogen production in remote locations or inDomestic-scale systems can be aggregated using thesituations where electricity is primarily generated byhydrogen storage as a communal resource, providing

renewable energy systems will provide carbon-free fuela scalable gas microgrid. Distributed clean energy

gas that may be used for instant hot water heating andinstallations are attractive to remote tourist sites andhydrogen-burning appliances. With a lower cost of energy

marae that rely on bottled LPG for cooking, hot water

storage (at low pressure) compared to battery storage

and space heating.

(thereby enabling more of the available renewable energy
to be captured), consumers could have the option to cookwith gas. Callaghan Innovation is trialling such a system,
the HyLink (see Figure 8).

Future opportunities include private fuel cell electricvehicle (FCEV) filling. A local fuel cell will also provide
emergency electrical back-up, but in most cases,
electricity will be provided from batteries because of thesuperior efficiency afforded by charger-inverter technology
compared to electrolyser and fuel cell conversions.

20 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Mobilising hydrogen
Before determining whether liquid hydrogen (LH2) or
CGH2 would be appropriate, it is important to recognisehydrogen’s unique chemical and physical properties.
• Hydrogen atoms are very small and can permeate
solid metals. Once absorbed, hydrogen lowers thestress required for cracks in the metal to initiate andpropagate, resulting in embrittlement. Embrittlement

Liquid hydrogen (LH2)
LH2 is colourless, odourless, tasteless, and highly
flammable, as are its vapours. It is non-corrosive, but
because it is -253°C, vessels and piping must be selected
to withstand the pressure and temperatures involved andcomply with applicable codes and regulations.

occurs most notably in steels, iron, nickel, titanium,

In light of these challenges, LH2 Europe, which is focusedcobalt, and their alloys.

on the sustainable supply chain of green LH2 to markets
in Northwestern Europe, is working with C-Job Naval• Hydrogen can easily escape from containment.
• Its flammability range is wide and it takes only a limited
amount of energy to ignite.

Architects12 on a 141-metre liquid hydrogen tanker (seeFigure 9). The ship is 34.9 m wide, has installed power of
5,000 kWe and can travel at 14 knots. Each of its three• Its extremely low density means the gas will probably

deck-mounted tanks can hold 12,500 m3. Because LH2

ascend upon escaping, rather than forming dense,

is high in volume but 20 times lighter than liquefied

dangerous clouds as other hazardous gases do.

natural gas (LNG), the hull is trapezium shaped so that

• It should be stored at an extremely low temperature(in liquid form) or a very high pressure (gas).

additional ballast is not required. Such a tanker could carryenough fuel for 400,000 cars, or 20,000 heavy trucks in asingle voyage.

Given the challenges (including the possibility of fire,
explosion, asphyxiation, and exposure to extremely low
temperatures and high working pressures), LH2 and CGH2
must be handled carefully.

Figure 9 – Artist’s impression of C-Job Naval Architects’ design carrier for LH2 Europe© C-Job Naval Architects
12

C-Job Naval Architects, undated.

Hydrogen standards review | 21

Standards New ZealandCompressed hydrogen gas (CGH2)
CGH2 is odourless and non-toxic, but by diluting theTable 2 shows some key safety factor considerations forconcentration of oxygen in air below levels necessary todeveloping a compliance guidance handbook or CoP.

support life, it can cause suffocation. The amount needed

These initial thoughts warrant cross-agency discussion

to produce an oxygen-deficient atmosphere is well within

to identify and implement appropriate risk-mitigation

the flammable range (4 per cent to 74 per cent in air),procedures (in accordance with existing codes andmaking fire and explosion the primary hazards associatedregulations) and, as such, the list is not exhaustive. Forwith hydrogen and air atmospheres.

further risk assessment and mitigation, see ISO TR 15916,
Basic considerations for the safety of hydrogen systems.

Table 2 – Key safety considerations – Very high risk
Applications

FactorRisk

All

General comments• Hydrogen migrates quickly through small openings.
• The minimum ignition energy for flammable mixturescontaining hydrogen is extremely low.
• Because hydrogen burns with a very pale blue, almost
invisible flame, injury may occur if someone walks into ahydrogen fire.
• Careful evacuation and purge operations should be
used to prevent the formation of flammable or explosive
mixtures.
• Cold burns may occur from short contact with frosted
lines, liquid air that may be dripping from cold lines orvent stacks, vapouriser fins, and vapour leaks. Extensive
tissue damage or burns can result from exposure to liquidhydrogen or cold hydrogen vapours.
• Air will condense at liquid hydrogen temperaturesand can become an oxygen-enriched liquid due to thevapourisation of nitrogen. Oxygen-enriched air increases
the combustion rate of flammable and combustible
materials (including clothing).

22 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Table 2 – Key safety considerations – Very high risk continued
Applications

FactorRisk• Production &Equipment and• Pressure and extremely low (cryogenic) operating

purification• Fuel stationequipment & design

manufacturing materials
Flammability

temperatures.
• Broad flammable range in air. Can explode and may burnwith a pale blue, almost invisible flame.

• Mobility• Network distribution

Human health• Suffocation potential by diluting concentration of oxygenin air below the level necessary to support life.
• First aid: Self-contained breathing apparatus may berequired to prevent asphyxiation of rescue workers.

Liquid transference• Closed system requirements apply. Liquid transfer lines
must be vacuum insulated to minimise product loss
through vapourisation or the formation of liquid air on
the lines, with subsequent oxygen enrichment.
• All equipment must be electrically grounded and bonded
before transferring liquid.

Purging• Gaseous and liquid hydrogen systems must be purged ofair, oxygen, or other oxidisers prior to admitting hydrogento the systems and purged of hydrogen before opening
the system to the atmosphere. Purging should be done toprevent the formation of flammable mixtures.

LH2 versus CGH2
Each form has its own challenges, so the choice will cometo research by the United States Department of Energy

down to financial and logistical factors. Table 3 sets out(DOE)13 on new fuelling stations in California at the end

some things to consider, as well as pros and cons, relatingof 2021.

13

Koleva and Melaina, 2021.

Hydrogen standards review | 23

Standards New Zealand

Table 3 – LH2 vs CGH2
Tank

DeliveryTime toOff-load andmethodpressure

capacity

distance

fill

invest costs

200 – 500 bar> 1000 kg< 250 km

> 4 hours

45 minutes

CGH2

Delivery(Gaseous tube-trailer)

Delivery(2900 – 7251

(trailer

psi)

swap)

Pros

Cons

• Economical for short to medium• Comparatively low capacity

distances• Average on-site storage capacity 770 kg
per day(high delivery frequency)• Comparatively large on-site footprint(4 x that of liquid)• Typical on-site H₂ equipment capital• Residual gas in trailer (equals waste).

cost estimate: ~ US$1.4 milliona

The higher the pressure in supply(NZD$2.24 million)

chain, the higher the amount/tonnage

LH2(Liquid hydrogen tanker)

of CGH2 in circulation
1 barcontainerised unit)

LH2> 300 km

> 4 hours

60 minutes(14.7 psi) at• Economical for medium to long distances• Comparatively small equipment footprint-253°C• Average on-site storage capacity of
1400 kg to 1620 kg per day• Typical on-site H₂ equipment capital costestimate: US$1.9 million – US$4.2 millionb(NZD$3 – 6.7 million)

1 bar(Liquid hydrogen> 4000 kg> 1000 kg> 300 km

> 3 hours

30 minutes• Economical for medium to long distances(14.7 psi) at(container-253°C

swap)• Comparatively small equipment footprint• Average on-site storage capacity 500 kg
to 1000 kg per day• Typical on-site H₂ equipment capital costestimate: US$1.0 million – US$2.0 millionc(NZD$1.6 – 3.2 million)a, b, cKoleva, M, and Melaina, M., 2021.

24 | Hydrogen standards review• Comparatively high energy demand(~12 kwh/kg for liquefaction).
Some liquid needs to remain in the
distribution equipment to keep
it cryogenic cold during return to
LH2 source• Useable volume < 90%• Comparatively high energy demand.
(~12 kwh/kg for liquefaction).
Some liquid needs to remain in the
distribution equipment to keep
it cryogenic cold during return to
LH2 source• Useable volume < 90%Standards New Zealand

LH2

CGH2

Figure 10 – LH2 and CGH2: A comparison of energy densities© German Aerospace Centre (DLR)

On the face of it, CGH2 appears more economic than LH2

A drawback to LH2 is having to depend on storage

but there are limitations to transporting compressedtank construction (boil-off rates are between 0.25 perhydrogen at high pressures. Delivery distance from thecent and 0.95 per cent per day). Also, liquefaction

production source (hub) is constrained to about 250 km.

carries a comparatively high energy demand. Current

Tube-trailer capacity is typically 25 per cent that of anstate-of-the-art liquefaction technology places energy

LH2 tanker, so refuelling stations require more frequentconsumption at typically 12kWh/kg. This is partly due todeliveries. CGH2 also has a larger on-site storage footprint

the very low temperature (-253°C) required to condense(see Figure 10), with more storage vessels and additionalhydrogen into a liquid state and equates to 36 per centsupporting structures. Additionally, the higher the pressureof the useable energy contained in 1 kg of hydrogenin the supply chain, the higher the amount/tonnage ofat 33.33 kWh/kg. However, IdealHy (Integrated Design

CGH2 in circulation, so the greater the waste.

for Efficient Advanced Liquefaction of Hydrogen), a

Hydrogen is an excellent energy carrier with respect toweight (1 kg of hydrogen contains 33.33 kWh of usableenergy, whereas petrol and diesel hold about 12 kWh/kg).
However, from a volumetric energy-density perspective,hydrogen (see Table D2) is outperformed by liquid
fuels. This poses a challenge when hydrogen must betransported from the site of its generation to a refuelling
station. Petrol and diesel carry around 8.8 kWh/litre and
10 kWh/litre, respectively. Under ambient conditions, 1 m3of hydrogen provides some 3 kWh (equivalent to 0.003
kWh per litre). CGH2 contains about 0.5 kWh/litre at 200
bar, 1.1 kWh/litre at 500 bar, and 1.4 kWh/litre at 700 bar.
Therefore, the best way of transporting hydrogen in termsof energy density is in its liquid form, achieving more thanconsortium of eight organisations and institutions,is developing a process that can halve the specificpower consumption for hydrogen liquefaction. Basedon technology analysis, conceptual work and processoptimisation, 6.4 kWh/kg has been accomplished. This
reduces the useable energy contained in 1 kg of hydrogento 19 per cent. IdealHy believes there is scope for further
reductions in specific power consumption (pending tests
of appropriate components, such as turbo machinery).
From New Zealand’s perspective, innovative processoptimisation, including more intensive and innovativeuse of renewable energy in the form of on-site power
generation (photovoltaics) and energy storage systems,
could be key to further power consumption reductions.

2.3 kWh/litre.
Hydrogen standards review | 25

Standards New Zealand

When it comes to LH2, smart designs maximise

Despite the challenges, both LH2 and CGH2 have merits

delivery and storage system efficiencies with complete

and, depending on the application, are considered

containerised solutions. Multi-modal containers can beideal for rapid deployment and scalability, relative totransported by road, ship and rail, providing a highly

the availability of capital investment. Either way, both

flexible distribution solution during the early adoption

methods will provide the flexibility necessary to support aphase of a hydrogen market. Internationally, in somedecentralised, nationwide hydrogen distribution network.

instances off-loading times (through swap-outs) havebeen reduced to as little as 30 minutes.

Standards prioritisation

regulatory regime• Guidance handbook/CoP

2022–23

2023–24

2024–25

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stationary energy
and storage

Semi-centralisedhydrogen distribution

Decentralisedhydrogen distribution• Conformity assessment &supplier declarations• Fuel station equipment& design

appliances & installations• Production & purification• Safety, inspection validation• Network distribution &• Fuel quality, performance

NZS 5442:2008 (Mod)• Safety verification of gas• APEC green credentialingr e g u l ato ry r e g i m e

r e g u l ato ry r e g i m e• Cross-agency policy alignment& composition• Mobility

Note: Subject to funding/resource availability.

Figure 11 – Supply chain standards prioritisation
Looking toward FY 2024/25, we would expect to see

We also expect to see substantial advancement by theestablished a robust hydrogen-related compliance

New Zealand-led APEC technical working group on theregime pointing to international standards to underpin

development of a globally recognised green credentialling

New Zealand’s future hydrogen-based economy (seestandard that will underpin a potential New ZealandFigure 11). The adoption of such standards will follow

green-hydrogen export market.

Standards New Zealand internationally recognised
standards development procedures and protocols.
TAG P3652 accepts that the development of a fully
functioning compliance regime as complex as this one willtake time to establish, which is why in Figure 11 this activity
circumnavigates all three stages of a standard’s adoption
and development.

26 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

To provide context on the significance of this opportunity,

industry alone would consume 50 per cent of the

we need only look at one component of the global

entire installed base of green electricity … In otherlogistics industry: cargo shipping. Since 2018, there has

words, we need dramatic, exponential scale ofbeen an escalation in capital investment in research andinstallations, of solar, of wind, and of green fueldevelopment (R&D) on clean energy across shipping fleets

production to solve this problem. We estimate thattowards hydrogen. One such example is being led by

the total investment will be in the neighbourhood ofMaersk. At the 2021 TED Countdown climate conference,

US$2 trillion, which granted is a lot of money – but

Maersk’s chairman, Jim Hagemann Snabe, said,

this is the equivalent of only four years of capital“Our fleet [750 vessels] today consumes 10 million

expenditure in the oil and gas industry today.”14

tons of bunker oil. If we replaced that with green

Hagemann Snabe also predicted that in the next 10 years,

fuel, we estimate that we need 220,000 GWh

the global demand for green fuel will be significantly higherof green electricity. That is the equivalent tothan the supply. Higher supply and demand translates to

10 per cent of the global installed base of solar andgreat business opportunities for New Zealand’s potential

wind energy in 2019. Maersk is 20 per cent of thehydrogen export market.

cargo shipping industry, and the cargo shipping

Figure 12 – Cargo shipping industry evolution© Fitzgerald/Shutterstock.com

14

Hagemann Snabe, J, 2021.

Hydrogen standards review | 27

Standards New Zealand4. Hydrogen standards implementation strategy
Having considered the regulatory regime and addressed the threefundamental constituents of the hydrogen supply chain (stationary energy
storage, semi-centralised hydrogen distribution and decentralised hydrogen
distribution), a standards implementation strategy aligned to the three stages
can be developed.
Tables 4, 5, and 6 outline TAG P3652’s recommendations for the implementation of standards, covered by the review of
all four projects:
1. production & purification and green credentialling
2. fuel station equipment & design
3. mobility & safety
4. network distribution & inspection.

Positioning statement on LH2
TAG P3652 acknowledges that LH2 will play a significant role in New Zealand’s evolving hydrogen industry. However,
ISO technical committees (such as TC 197) are focusing on CGH2, and the adoption of standards outlined in the following
tables reflect that stance. Standards New Zealand is keeping an eye on standards development activities relating toliquid hydrogen (see Figure B4). Of particular interest are ISO 13985:2006, Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuel tanks andISO 13984:1999, Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuelling system interface. These standards will probably come up for review
and could then be included in the list.

Table 4 – Stage 1: Standards implementation
Direct adoptions of international standards
ISO/IEC 17050-1

Conformity assessment – Supplier’s declaration of conformity – Part 1: General
requirements

ASME B31.12

Hydrogen piping and pipelines

ASME B31.3

Process piping

Modified adoptions of ISO/IEC standards
ISO 16110-1

Hydrogen generators using fuel processing technologies – Part 1: Safety

ISO 16110-2

Hydrogen generators using fuel processing technologies – Part 2: Test methods for
performanceISO 22734

Hydrogen generators using water electrolysis – Industrial, commercial, and residential
applications

ISO TS 19883

28 | Hydrogen standards review

Safety of pressure swing adsorption systems for hydrogen separation and purification

Standards New Zealand

Table 4 – Stage 1: Standards implementation continued
IEC 62282-3-200

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-200: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance
test methods

IEC 62282-3-300

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-300: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Installation

IEC 62282-3-201

Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-201: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance
test methods for small fuel cell power systems

Revision of joint standards15
AS/NZS IEC 60079-0:2019

Explosive atmospheres – Part 0: Equipment – General requirements

AS/NZS IEC 60079-33:2012

Explosive atmospheres – Part 33: Equipment protection by special protection ‘s’

AS/NZS 60079.10.1:2009

Explosive atmospheres – Part 10.1: Classification of areas – Explosive gas atmospheres

AS/NZS 60079.11:2011

Explosive atmospheres – Part 11: Equipment protection by intrinsic safety ‘i’

AS/NZS 60079.14:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 14: Design selection, erection and initial inspection

AS/NZS 60079.17:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance

AS/NZS 60079.18:2016

Explosive atmospheres – Part 18: Equipment protection by encapsulation ‘m’

AS/NZS 60079.29.2:2016

Explosive atmospheres – Part 29.2: Gas detectors – Selection, installation, use andmaintenance of detectors for flammable gases and oxygen

AS/NZS 3820:2020

Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment

AS/NZS 5601.1:2013

Gas installations – Part 1: General installations

AS/NZS 5601.2:2020

Gas installations – Part 2: LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for
non-propulsive purposes15

AS 2885.0:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 0: General requirements

AS/NZS 2885.1:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 1: Design and construction

AS/NZS 2885.2:2020

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 2: Welding

AS/NZS 2885.3:1997

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 3: Operation and maintenance

AS/NZS 2885.4:2016

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 4: Submarine pipeline systems

AS/NZS 2885.5:2012

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 5: Field pressure testing

AS/NZS 2885.6:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 6: Pipeline safety management

AS/NZS 4645.1:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 1: Network management

AS/NZS 4645.2:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 2: Steel pipe systems

AS/NZS 4645.3:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 3: Plastics pipe systems

The revision of joint standards is subject to discussion and negotiation between Standards New Zealand, Standards Australia,
and WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety.

Hydrogen standards review | 29

Standards New Zealand

Table 5 – Stage 2: Standards implementation
Direct adoptions of international standards
ISO 14687

Hydrogen fuel quality – Product specification

ISO 19880-3

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 3: Valves

ISO 19880-5

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 5: Dispenser hoses and hose assemblies

ISO 19881

Gaseous hydrogen – Land vehicle fuel containers

ISO 19882

Gaseous hydrogen – Thermally activated pressure relief devices for compressed hydrogenvehicle fuel containers

ISO 26142

Hydrogen detection apparatus – Stationary applications

ISO 11114-4

Transportable gas cylinders – Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials with gas
contents – Part 4: Test methods for selecting steels resistant to hydrogen embrittlement

ISO 16111

Transportable gas storage devices – Hydrogen absorbed in reversible metal hydride

ISO 19880-8

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 8: Fuel quality control

ISO 17268

Gaseous hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices

ISO 21266-2

Road vehicles – Compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2) and hydrogen/natural gas blends
fuel systems – Part 2: Test methods

ISO 23273

Fuel cell road vehicles – Safety specifications – Protection against hydrogen hazards forvehicles fuelled with compressed hydrogen

Modified adoptions of ISO/IEC standards
ISO 19880-1

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 1: General requirements

Revision of New Zealand standards
NZS 7901:2014

Electricity and gas industries – Safety management systems for public safety

NZS 5263:2003

Gas detection and odorisation

Table 6 – Stage 3: Standards implementation
Revision of New Zealand standards

16

NZS 5263:2003

Gas detection and odorisation

NZS 5256:2014

Safety of gas appliances

NZS 5255:2014 + A1

Safety verification of existing gas installations

NZS 5259:2015

Gas measurement

NZS 5442:200816

Specification for reticulated natural gas

Standards New Zealand and WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety have, as an interim measure, agreed to the revision of NZS 5442:2008 Specification
for reticulated natural gas to enable blending of biofuel (specifically biomethane). The standard is then expected to go through further revision to enable
blending of hydrogen with natural gas.

30 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Procedural requirements
To adopt or modify any standard on behalf of a sponsor, Standards New Zealand must make a submission to the Standards
Approval Board (SAB), which convenes once a month. Submissions include a project brief and the intention to convenea standards development committee (unless pre-existing) to seek approval for committee membership from nominatingorganisations. Grouping multiple standards under a single submission can streamline the SAB approval process.
Development times are, relative to subject matter complexity, publication length, and the ability to reach consensus,
typically:• six to eight months for new project scoping, proposal, sponsorship and approvals• nine to 12 months for guidance publications, handbooks and publicly available specifications• six to nine months for direct and modified adoptions of international standards• 18 to 36 months for New Zealand or joint standards development.

Table 7 – Standards adoption
DAa

MAb

Rc

Rc

ISO/IEC/ASME

ISO/IEC

Joint standards

New Zealand standards

3

7

20

1d

Stage

S1

1 (AS only)
S2

12

1

0

2

S3

n/a

n/a

0

5d

a

DA = Direct adoptionsb

MA = Modified adoptionsc

R = RevisionsdStandards New Zealand and WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety have, as an interim measure, agreed to the revision of NZS 5442:2008 Specification for
reticulated natural gas to enable blending of biomethane. The standard is then expected to go through further revision to enable blending of hydrogen withnatural gas.

Once sponsorship is secured, Standards New Zealand will set up a committee to oversee the:• direct adoption of 15 ISO/IEC/ASME standard• modified adoption (for New Zealand regional conditions) of eight ISO/IEC standards.

Hydrogen standards review | 31

Standards New Zealand

Existing standards
Of the six existing standards listed below, we will review five (excluding NZS 5442:2008) for possible revision.
• NZS 5263:2003

Gas detection and odorization• NZS 5266:2014

Safety of gas appliances• NZS 5255:2014 + A1

Safety verification of existing gas installations• NZS 5259: 2015

Gas measurement• NZS 5266:2014

Safety of gas appliances• NZS 5442:2008

Specification for reticulated natural gas

Standards New Zealand will also liaise with Standards Australia and WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety regarding theongoing relevance, potential revision and timing of any updates to the 20 existing joint standards and one Australia-only
standard potentially impacted by the integration of hydrogen across the sector.
• AS/NZS IEC 60079-0:2019

Explosive atmospheres – Part 0: Equipment – General requirements• AS/NZS IEC 60079-33:2012 Explosive atmospheres – Part 33: Equipment protection by special protection ‘s’• AS/NZS 60079.10.1:2009

Explosive atmospheres – Classification of areas – Explosive gas atmospheres• AS/NZS 60079.11:2011

Explosive atmospheres – Part 11: Equipment protection by intrinsic safety ‘i’• AS/NZS 60079.14:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 14: Design selection, erection and initial inspection• AS/NZS 60079.17:2017

Explosive atmospheres – Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance• AS/NZS 60079.18:2016

Explosive atmospheres – Part 18: Equipment protection by encapsulation ‘m’• AS/NZS 60079.29.2016 	Explosive atmospheres – Part 29.2: Gas detectors – Selection, installation, use andmaintenance of detectors for flammable gases and oxygen• AS/NZS 3820:2020

Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment• AS/NZS 5601.1:2013

Gas installations – Part 1: General installations• AS/NZS 5601.2:2020 	Gas installations – Part 2: LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive
purposes• AS 2885.0:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum Part 0: General requirements• AS/NZS 2885.1:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 1: Design and construction• AS/NZS 2885.2:2020

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 2: Welding• AS/NZS 2885.3:1997

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Operation and maintenance• AS/NZS 2885.4:2016

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 4: Submarine pipeline systems• AS/NZS 2885.5:2012

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 5: Field pressure testing• AS/NZS 2885.6:2018

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 6: Pipeline safety management• AS/NZS 4645.1:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 1: Network management• AS/NZS 4645.2:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 2: Steel pipe systems• AS/NZS 4645.3:2018

Gas distribution networks – Part 3: Plastics pipe systems

32 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

5. Next actions
Globally, the pace of transition (powered by the need to meet carbon emission
reduction targets) is accelerating. Hydrogen production is an economy of scale
and in California, according to the United States Department of Energy, the costof new hydrogen refuelling stations on a per fuel bowser basis since 2012 has
fallen between 77 per cent and 88 per cent at 2020 prices.17
Australia is ahead of New Zealand (by at least 3 years)

could be one of the first countries to obtain (through thein terms of standards adoptions, capital investment and

APEC standards initiative) a globally recognised green

the development of infrastructure to support their own

credential for hydrogen exports.

hydrogen industry and export market to countries such
as Japan.

Lastly, from a regional perspective, in places like Taranaki
and north of Taupo (where Halcyon Power’s geothermally

Despite these challenges, New Zealand has a motivatedpowered hydrogen plant is sited), we need to leverageand fully engaged energy sector with the technologicalexisting international supply chains through the oil and gas

requirements to pivot rapidly. But we need to act now. It

industry to support the energy services sector’s transition.

is time to capitalise on our extensive renewable energy

This stands to create significant new opportunities forresources to supply high-purity, green hydrogen locally and

New Zealand businesses in the years ahead.

abroad. If we get our timing right, by 2024/25 New Zealand

Table 8 – Next actions
Action			Milestone

Regulatory regime
Industry is seeking government leadership and clarity on the development of its hydrogenroadmap.18 The inter-agency Hydrogen Regulatory Settings Working Group19 is working
through the complexities in aligning current regulatory settings. However, stakeholder feedback
suggests that realigning regulatory settings should not cause further delay to the quick
adoption of the good practice international standards outlined in this report  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FY 2022/23 to 2025
Hydrogen standards implementation strategy
In accordance with an agreed multi-year programme of work between Standards New Zealandand WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety (including other regulatory agencies), institute thehydrogen standards implementation strategy.
Stage 1 – Stationary energy and storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FY 2022/23
Stage 2 – Semi-centralised hydrogen distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FY 2023/24
Stage 3 – Decentralised hydrogen distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FY 2024/25

17

Koleva and Melaina, 2021.

18

For more information, see https://www.mbie.govt.nz/building-and-energy/energy-and-natural-resources/energy-strategies-for-new-zealand/hydrogen-innew-zealand/roadmap-for-hydrogen-in-new-zealand/

19

Participants include MBIE – Energy and Resource Markets Branch, Health & Safety, Building System Performance, Trade & International,
Standards New Zealand, Commerce Commission, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, Environmental Protection Agency, Fire and Emergency NZ,
Gas Industry Company (GIC), Maritime NZ, Ministry for the Environment, Ministry of Transport, NZ Customs Service, Waka Kotahi/ NZ Transport Agency
and WorkSafe New Zealand.

Hydrogen standards review | 33

Standards New Zealand

Appendix A – Hydrogen standards review
Standards New Zealand held a scoping workshop (promoted as a hydrogenstandards forum) in December 2019 to gather feedback from New Zealand’s
leading gas industry subject matter experts and facilitate cross-governmentagency discussions around the advancement of hydrogen from a standards,
policy and compliance perspective.
A snapshot of what our OECD partners are doing was

The regulator agreed with the recommendations and theidentified, and international good practice identified.

above activities ran in parallel with a broader programme

Valuable insights into the challenges faced by local

to review regulatory settings, impacted by the integration

stakeholders embarking on hydrogen pilot/demonstrationof hydrogen. This work was led by the Ministry of Business,

projects and the particular lack of a proper regulatory

Innovation and Employment’s Energy and Resource

framework that supports the integration of hydrogen as

Markets team and included other government agencies.

an alternative fuel source were highlighted.

The combination of these activities is characterised inUsing stakeholders’ feedback and lessons learned from

Figure A2, which led to Standards New Zealand developing

demonstration projects, Standards New Zealand prepareda hydrogen standards implementation strategy (seea report for WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safetysection 4).

outlining findings and recommending the development of
a hydrogen standards draft framework and a ‘standards
review prioritisation plan’ (see Figure A1).

2020–212022–25 *2021–22Development
and regulatoryalignment

Review, good-practice internationalalignment and recommendations*•

Production &purification•

Fuel stationequipment & design•

Mobility & safety••

Network
distribution &inspection

Develop new
NZ standards•

Adopt international
standards•

Amend existing NZ
and AS/NZS standards

Prioritisation plans will be reassessed and agreed upon prior to the end of each financial year.

Figure A1 – Standards review prioritisation plan

34 | Hydrogen standards review

TBA *Implementation,
education andcompliance•

Complianceguidelines

Standards New ZealandObjective
Technical advisory group (TAG) P3652’s primary objective

The intended outcome was to determine which of thewas to ensure that chosen standards meet New Zealand’sreviewed standards would allow for this to occur, resulting

needs for the safe integration of hydrogen across thein a suite of recommendations for adoption (either directly

energy landscape.

or with modifications) of good practice international

The standards under review covered a broad hydrogenstandards.

ecosystem, which contains many moving parts, fromIt was therefore necessary to understand the dynamics of the

production, through the distribution and transportation ofhydrogen ecosystem and supply chain interdependencies,hydrogen in gaseous as well as liquefied states, to on-sitethen use this information as the basis upon which a

production, storage and refuelling facilities.

standards solutions prioritisation plan could be developed(Figure A1), then expanded upon within the standards
solutions implementation strategy (outlined in section 4).

Hydrogen standards
implementation strategy

Standards solutions roadmap

Standards New Zealandprioritisation delivery plan
2022 to 2025

New Zealand hydrogenstandards framework

WorkSafe – Energy Safety

MBIE renewable energy

regulatory review

strategy work programme

Government public policy objectives:• The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019
• The Carbon Neutral Government Programme (CNGP) 2025
• The MBIE Building for Climate Change (BfCC) programme• Emissions Reduction Plan
• Gas Transitions Plan

Figure A2 – Hydrogen standards implementation strategy
Hydrogen standards review | 35

Standards New Zealand

Scope
Given the large number of standards to be reviewed, a staged approach was agreed. Production & purification, green
credentialling, and fuel station equipment & design were covered in 2020/21, followed by mobility & safety and network
distribution & inspection in 2021/22. The primary focus concerned international standards for hydrogen relating to industrial
and commercial applications.

Project 1: Production & purification and green
credentialling

Project 3: Mobility & safety

Review of international standards for industrial andindustrial and commercial applications pertaining to:commercial applications pertaining to:• safety verification of existing gas installations• hydrogen generators using water electrolysers and fuel• essential safety requirements for electrical equipment

processing technologies• safety of pressure swing absorption systems forhydrogen separation and purification• odourisation of hydrogen gas• green credentialling – for example, reviewing theEuropean Union’s (EU) certification scheme (CertifHy),
where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
is heading, and any other relevant existing or emerging
certification schemes.

Review of local, regional and international standards for• essential requirements for gas equipment – safety andcertification• fuel cell technologies and safety specifications,performance, test methods and installations• liquid hydrogen fuel tanks and fuel system interfaces• gaseous hydrogen in fuelling stations, pertaining to fuelquality control• transportable gas cylinders and transportable gas
storage devices

Project 2: Fuel station equipment & design
Review of international standards for industrial andcommercial applications pertaining to:• design, installation, operation and maintenance forhydrogen refuelling stations• hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices• validated refuelling protocols for vehicles• metering systems, fuel quality control, certificationand validation• on-site hydrogen storage containers and associateddevices• basic considerations for the safety of hydrogen systems,
including leakage-detection apparatus for stationary
applications.

• compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2 and hydrogen/natural gas blends fuel systems)• compressed gaseous fuel measuring systems forvehicles.

Project 4: Network distribution & inspection
Review of international standards for industrial andcommercial applications pertaining to:• gas distribution networks and pipelines, including
metrological and technical requirements• gas measurement• conformity assessment – requirements for theoperation of various types of bodies performing
inspection• hydrogen-fired gas appliances and particularrequirements for electrolysers.

36 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Appendix B – Revised New Zealand hydrogenstandards framework 2022
Successful implementation of a “hydrogen economy” needs to beunderpinned by internationally recognised good practice standards andconformance systems that protect the health, safety and wellbeing ofindividuals and communities while at the same time facilitating international
trade, sustaining industry and supporting innovation.
To ensure that hydrogen can be successfully integrated

The New Zealand hydrogen standards framework (seein a way that is safe, secure and economically viable

Figure B3) focuses on 10 application-specific categories.

(through scalability), gaps in cited New Zealand, joint andThis framework provides industry a standards point ofinternational standards must be identified. Then a plan toreference, which is subject to change as good practice,address those gaps can be formulated.

technology and international standards continue to evolve.

Hydrogen standards review | 37

Standards New ZealandRenewable Energies
Wind

Solar

Logistics and Mobility

Hydro

THE ROLE OF FUEL CELLS AND HYDROGEN IN TOMORROW’S INTEGRATED ENERGYSYSTEM
Hydrogen production
with electrolysis

Energy fromrenewable sources

Admixture into the gas grid +Methanation (H2-to-X)

Charging
Stations for EVs

Intralogistics | Airports
Hydrogen storage
E-Bikes

Cars

Light-duty

Bus

Heavy-duty

Train

Cars

Light-duty

Bus

Heavy duty

Ship | Harbour
Hydrogen
Infrastructure
Hydrogen toelectricity
reconversion
via fuel cells

Hydrogen
Infrastructure

Hydrogenrefuelling
stations

Fuel cell
Aircraft

Hydrogen
LegendElectricity
Electricity

Industry*

Electricity grid

HydrogenHeating

Offices | Hotels | Large buildings

Gas grid

Fuel cell

Trade and Industry
Public buildings

Integrated energy system

Base load supply
Fuel cell plantwith cogeneration

Natural Gas

VapourHeating

Cooling
VapourEnergy in Buildings
One- and Two-family houses

Off-grid energy supply
Autonomous off-grid
electricity supply via
fuel cells,Interruption-freeelectricity supply,
Back-up power,
Emergency generating
units

Gas

Apartment buildings

Cooling

Power-to-liquidPower-to-liquid
Fire prevention
Fire safety

Electricity gridElectricity storage

Heat storage

Gas grid

Figure B1 – P2G (power-to-gas) hydrogen supply chain© Wegner*

Industrial applications include ammonia production, hydrocracking to create petroleum, electronics manufacturing, metalworking, welding, medical uses (producing hydrogen peroxide), and food production (turning unsaturated fats into
saturated oils and fats, including hydrogenated vegetable oils like margarine).

38 | Hydrogen standards review

New
Zealand
HH
feasibility
New
New
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Zealandpipelinefeasibility
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2H
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Standards New ZealandTechnical
ReportTechnical
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ReportReport 

Refuelling station hub locations: Sites for onsite

Electrolyser locations in 2035: Additional sites forElectrolyser and hydrogen storage in 2050: Locations

Refuelling
station‘hub’
locations––sitesforonsitelocations––additional
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locationslocations–sites
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locationslocationsin2035in20352035–additional
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hydrogenblend
100%
H2 network
ofofofelectrolyser
locationslocationselectrolyser
electrolyserplant
plant
plantandand
andlarge-scalelarge-scalelarge-scale
network(20
vol%hydrogenblend).
network
network
(20
(20
vol%
vol%
hydrogenhydrogenblend).
blend).
storage
tototo
feed
the
100%
HH
storagestorage
feed
feed
the
the
100%
100%
network.
2H
2network.
2network.
Figure B2sites–sitesHydrogennetwork
infrastructure
Figure16:
Locations
ofofofrefuelling
stations
andelectrolyser
throughthetransition
FigureFigure16:
16:
Locations
Locationsrefuellingrefuelling
stations
stations
andandelectrolyser
electrolyser
sites
throughthroughthethetransitiontransition transition© Firstgas

Hydrogen standards review | 39

47
47
47

Standards New ZealandApplicable New Zealand legislation
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

NZS 5255:2014+A1
NZS 5266:2014
AS/NZS 5601.1:2013
AS/NZS 5601.2:2020
AS/NZS 60079.0:2019
AS/NZS 60079.10.1:2009
AS/NZS 60079.11:2011
AS/NZS 3820:2020
NZS 7901:2014•

Health and Safety at Work Act 2015:•

Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010•

Health and Safety in Employment (Pressure Equipment,
Cranes, and Passenger Ropeways) Regulations 1999➢

Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace
Management) Regulations 2016•

Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010➢•Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 Rule 45001/1

Health and Safety at Work (Major Hazard Facilities) Regulations
2016➢

Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017

• AS/NZS ISO/IEC 17020:2013• AS/NZS 3760:2010

SAFETYINSPECTIONNZS ISO/IEC 17025:2018

NZS 5259:2015

VALIDATIONMETERINGNZS 5442:2008
AS/NZS 2885.0:2018
AS/NZS 2885.1:2018
AS/NZS 2885.2:2020
AS/NZS 2885.3:1997
AS/NZS 2885.4:2016
AS/NZS 2885.5:2012
AS/NZS 2885.6:2018
AS/NZS 4645.1:2018
AS/NZS 4645.2:2018
AS/NZS 4645.3:2018• ISO/IEC 17050-1 Ed 1.0:2004• IEC 60079-0 Ed 6.0• IEC 60079-33 Ed 1.0
PRODUCTION & PURIFCATION
•
•
•
•
•

ISO 22734
ISO 16110-1
ISO 16110-2
ISO/TS 19883
APEC Positioning on Green Credentialing(in development)

NZ CITED STANDARDSGAPNZ CITED STANDARDSGAPFUEL QUALITY,PERFORMANCE &COMPOSITIONMOBILITY• ISO 14687• ISO 19980-8

•
•
•
•
•
•

IEC 62282-3-200
IEC 62282-3-300
ISO 11114-4
ISO 16111
ISO 23273
ISO 21266-2

KEY
NZ CITED STANDARDS INREGULATIONSINTERNATIONAL GOOD-PRACTICELOCALSTANDARDSGAP

KEY CATEGORIES

Figure B3 – New Zealand hydrogen standards framework20
20

The New Zealand hydrogen standards draft framework (February 2023) includes the recommended standards solutions outlined in this report.

40 | Hydrogen standards review

FUEL STATION EQUIPMENT
ISO 17628
ISO/TS 19880-1
ISO 19880-3
ISO 19880-5
ISO 19881• ISO 19882

NETWORK DISTRIBUTION• ASME B31.12• ASME B31.3

AS/NZS 60079.17:2017
AS/NZS 60079.18:2016
AS/NZS 60079.29.2:2016
NZS 5263:2003

•
•
•
•
•

• ISO 26142• IEC 62282-3-201
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•

AS/NZS 60079.14:2017
FUEL STATION DESIGNCSA HGV 4.9

International standardisation and regulatory bodies in the field ofhydrogen and fuel cells and their linkages

Standards New Zealand

ABBREVIATIONS

UN – United Nations
ECE – Economic Commission for Europe
H2 – Hydrogen
WG – Working group
WP – Working party
TC – Technical committee
ISO – International Organization for Standardization
GRPE – Group [of] Rapporteurs on Pollution and Energy
GTR – Global Technical Regulations
TF – French Southern Territories

Source: European Commission.
Figure B4 – International standardisation and regulatory bodies in the field of hydrogen, fuel cells and their linkages© Centro Ricerche Fiat

Hydrogen standards review | 41

-^IWTLJS7JLZQFYNTS

DRAFT

Standards New Zealand

Sector regulation: The Gas Act provides the legislative framework for the regulation, supply and use of gas in New Zealand (including hydrogen) and the protection of public health and safety and property. GIC is the industry governance bodyand co-regulator responsible for developing market arrangements and regulations targeted at improving consumer outcomes; the operation of gas markets; and access to gas infrastructure. GIC’s objective is “to ensure that gas is delivered toexisting and new customers in a safe, efficient, fair, reliable and environmentally sustainable manner”. GIC will likely have a role in regulating hydrogen markets and infrastructure as the sector matures

Production,
installation,
handling

Input fuels: Hydrogen is typically converted
from either water (eg using electrolysis) orhydrocarbons (eg using steam reformation)- Water extraction permits are issued byregional councils under the Resource
Management Act (1991)
Input fuels:- Permits and royalties for indigenoushydrocarbons (eg oil, gas or coal) areadministered by MBIE under the Crown
Minerals Act (1991)
Security of supply:- GIC may have a rolein establishingframeworks andregulations which enable
the ongoing security ofsupply of hydrogen andcritical infrastructure ashydrogen gets used
more extensively as atransport fuel- Critical Contingency
Management regulations
for reticulated gas mayneed to be revisited toincorporate hydrogen

Supply & use

SafetyGas specification:
Specifications forhydrogen/gas blends are
required to ensure safe
use and compatibility
with gas appliances (egunder NZS 5442:2008
Specification for
reticulated natural gas)

Land Transport:
Transportation of hydrogen by roads and rail is regulated under theLand Transport Act (1998), Railways Act (2005), and Land Transport
Rule - Dangerous Goods (2005) by NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and
Ministry of Transport. Key requirements for hydrogen include use ofsafety features to prevent and detect leaks, dangerous goods driver
endorsements, and labelling of hazardous goods
Pipeline price-quality
regulation: prices for
reticulated natural gas
pipelines and quality ofsupply are regulated
under the Commerce Act(1986) by the CommerceCommission, impacting
blended hydrogen

Pipelines transportation:- The arrangements forhow hydrogen is usedwithin existing gas
pipelines may need to bereviewed within existing
pipeline operating codes
and access agreements

Storage:- Hydrogen can be stored in gas,liquid or solid form. It can also be
stored in other chemical form (e.g.
ammonia)- Regulatory frameworks will need tobe responsive to new hydrogenstorage technologies that are being
currently researched, which may not
fall under gas regulatory frameworks(e.g. liquids or solids).
- The Gas Act does not cover gas
storage containers, such as LPG
cylinders. The Health and Safety at
Work (Hazardous Substances)
Regulations 2017, administered byWorksafe, sets out guidance for theapproval of gas containers, filling,
handling, and marking of cylinders

Reconciliation:- Arrangements forreconciliation of hydrogen
inputs to reticulated gas
may need to beconsidered to address howhydrogen energy
quantities are derived

Installations:- Hydrogen gas fitters must be registered under the
Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act (2006) asadministered by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers
Board- Installations must comply with the building code under the
Building Act (2004) and RMA (administered by councils), and
the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations (2010)
Fueling stations:
Various standards apply tothe safe handling and supplyof CNG, LPG, petrol anddiesel at fuel stations, as
administered by Worksafe.
Similar standards may need
to be developed for Hydrogenif used as a commercial
transport fuelMeasurement:- Gas is metered on energy
content.
- Gas measurement
standards may needreviewing to incorporate
blended hydrogen and purehydrogen fuel supply

Consumer protections:- Commerce Commission monitoring andenforcement under Fair Trading Act (1986),
Consumer Guarantees Act (1993), andCommerce Act (1986)- GIC must consult with the Ministry ofConsumer Affairs on impacts to small
consumers.
- Utilities Disputes may be applicable toblended hydrogen

Retail Markets:- Gas switching rules andregistry arrangements may
apply to blended hydrogen.
- Commercial
arrangements may be
applicable to bottledhydrogen (eg like LPG)
with GIC monitoring

Product approval and control:- The EPA approves and controls
hazardous substances, includinghydrogen, for use in New Zealandunder the Hazardous Substances and
New Organisms Act (2006)- The EPA may regulate the disposalof hydrogen or related byproducts

Safe supply: The Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations (2010) set out responsibilities, obligations and standards for the safe supply of gas. It sets out regulations that may be relevant to certification of hydrogen installations, appliances,and fittings and supply of both reticulated and containerised hydrogen. It references various gas standards, including for example dealing with gas detection and odorisation, which may need to be reviewed for hydrogen

Responsibility

Workplace safety: WorkSafe regulates the management of hazardous substances in the workplace under the Health and Safety at Work Act (2015) and has powers under the Gas Act to develop codes of practice concerning the design,
installation, operation, and maintenance of gas distribution systems, installations, fittings and appliances. Worksafe is responsible for monitoring certification of gas pipelines. Specific codes of practice may need to be reviewed or developed forhydrogen given its unique features

GIC
Worksafe
EPA
Commerce Commission
NZTA / MoT
Local Government
MBIE

Note: ‘Blended hydrogen’ is hydrogen gas mixed with natural gas

Figure B5 – New Zealand current hydrogen regulatory framework© PwC/MBIE

42 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Appendix C – Standards review commentary
TAG P3652 subgroups reviewed the standards as outlined in the New Zealandhydrogen standards framework. Their final recommendations are outlined inTables 4, 5 and 6. This section deals with only specific commentary.
Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary
AS/NZS 3645.1:2012 Essential requirements for gas equipment – Part 1: Essential safety• 2.3.1.13 Note 1. Make provision of other gases• 2.3.1.14 Note 1. Make provision of other gases• Note section – add note for test reports, with the results of ISO or EN (European norm) standards• 2.3.13 New gas could be hydrogen and hydrogen blended, or this could be two classes, pure and blended hydrogen(assuming blends are going to be up to about 25% hydrogen in methane)• 2.3.13, 2.2.14 A higher operating and maximum overpressure may be appropriate for hydrogen to offset lower energy
density. For example, for 100% hydrogen 3–10 kPa operating; 15–20 kPa overpressure maximum• 1.3.4 would seem to include hydrogen fuel cells once hydrogen is added. Not a problem per se, but may be an
unintended consequence• Generic use of the term ‘gas’. Does this need defining given potential for NG/H2 blends – could be through thefamily descriptors• 1.2 Does list of reference standards need updating to cover up to pure H2• 1.3.11 Will need updating for blends (or NZS 5442 will need to include blends)• 1.3.14 Need further definition of reference gas• 2.1.5, 2.3.1.13, 2.2.1.14 – Reference to family of gases – need to ensure hydrogen and blends are assigned appropriate
family and update this section as required• 2.3.1.13 Note 1. Make provision of other gases• 2.3.1.14 Note 1. Make provision of other gases
AS/NZS 3645.2:2012 Essential requirements for gas equipment – Part 2: Certification• 2.1 Add note to make provision of other gases (blended H2 and NG)• All the standards listed in Appendix A appear to be Australian (mostly AS 455x /456x series). Would these haveto be updated for hydrogen and hydrogen-methane blends? Curious to know why no other standards are cited• 1.3.11 relies on NZS 5442 being updated for NG/H2 blends• 1.3.13/14/ Table 1 will need gases defined for blends• B4.8 – is the 5-year time frame still applicable for H2

Hydrogen standards review | 43

Standards New Zealand

Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary continued
BS PAS 4444:2020 Hydrogen-fired gas appliances. Guide• This is only a reference and not a standard. It states that hydrogen should be called 4th family where NZS 5266 and
AS/NZS 3645.1 and 2 call it the 1st• Adopt as a reference document to 3645.2 2012
• Focus is on domestic appliances, rather than industrial or process. This is a placeholder before formal standards
are adopted by the British Standards Institution (BSI), with many references to generic standards. It should beconsidered when adopting standards for domestic hydrogen appliances• Will need to confirm that all the referenced standards have been accepted for New Zealand• Agree with comments above. Additionally, need to consider that we could have appliances with mixed fuel gas(e.g. 20% H2 , 80% NG)
IEC 60335-2-108 2008 Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety – Particular requirements forelectrolysers• Section 1: Scope – standard not relevant; applicable only to domestic appliances that “produce low-viscosity, ionised
liquids intended for use as detergent-free wash water in appliances for household and similar purposes ...”• Section 1: Scope – standard not relevant – specifically excludes appliances for industrial purposes and appliances inareas for explosive atmospheres
NZS 5255:2014 Safety verification of existing gas installations• 13 (2) Flame visibility observed H2 gas. Where not visible, include as flame abnormality• This standard was reviewed in the last round and disregarded• Foreword – are the referenced standards still relevant and current for hydrogen mixes• This standard is for verification against performance requirements of NZS 5601 parts 1 and 2. Is NZS 5601 appliable
for H2? Note, NZS 5601 is for installations downstream of the point of supply only (so production and storage
excluded?)• Not sure this standard is applicable – it is only for existing gas installations and appliances• Also, worth noting that hazardous substances regulations state “1.8 Fuel gas (1) These regulations do not apply to
any fuel gas that is supplied through a distribution system or is used in a gas installation or gas appliance, within themeaning of the Gas Act 1992”• As H2 is a 2.1.1 gas, need to understand how this would be handled

44 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary continued
NZS 5266:2014 Safety of gas appliances• 4.1.6 add new category (c) blended family of gases H2/NG• 4.1.7 Note 1 add blended family of gases H2/NG• Appendix C1.1 add 4th family or blended gases• Appendix C2.2 add blended family of gases H2/NG• Table C2 add Wobbe index and relative density blended NG and H2 gases• C3 will require future update to table on development of H2 test gasses• Add hydrogen as another family of gases with necessary data (as per the six points above)• Consider hydrogen from alternative sources: reformed with CO, CO2 contamination and from electrolysis with O2
and water vapour• Is there any reason other than seismic considerations that this is not a joint Australian/New Zealand standard• Assume NZS 5442 will need review (by this group or others)• 4.1.6 add new category (c) blended family of gases H2/NG
NZS 5259: 2015 Gas measurement• Not applicable for vehicles. Appropriate for utility scale performance-based measurements (for H2 blends).
Changes required for blends. Is not appropriate to be modified for 100% H2
ISO 11114-4:2017 Transportable gas cylinders – Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials with gas contents –Part 4: Test methods for selecting steels resistant to hydrogen embrittlement• Consider recognition under relevant regulations in New Zealand
ISO 16111:2018 Transportable gas storage devices – Hydrogen absorbed in reversible metal hydride• Consider recognition under relevant regulations in New Zealand
ISO 13985:2006 Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuel tanks• Standard up to date, but not a priority at this stage
ISO 13984:1999 Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuelling system interface• Standard up to date, but not a priority at this stage
ISO 19880-8:2019 Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 8: Fuel quality control• Adopted parts 1, 3, and 5 in first round of reviews. Adopt directly (some references may need to be updated)

Hydrogen standards review | 45

Standards New Zealand

Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary continued
IEC 62282-3-200:2015 Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-200: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance test
methods• Some differences may occur between European and Australian versions of IEC 60079 series of standards.
Note: Needs to point to the AS/NZ 60079 series of standards
IEC 62282-3-300:2012 Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-300: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Installation• Confirm 7.1.2.1 doesn’t contradict distributed generation (DG) regulations in New Zealand. Some differences may
occur between European and Australian versions of 60079. Note: Needs to point to AS/NZS 60079 if required in
the document
IEC 62282-3-201:2017 Fuel cell technologies – Part 3-201: Stationary fuel cell power systems – Performance test
methods for small fuel cell power systems• Some differences may occur between European and Australian versions of 60079. Note: Needs to point to
AS/NZ 60079
ISO 17268:2020 Gaseous hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices• Adopt directly (some references may need to be updated)
ISO 23273:2013 Fuel cell road vehicles – Safety specifications – Protection against hydrogen hazards for vehicles
fuelled with compressed hydrogen• Good reference document. However, group not familiar enough with New Zealand road vehicle rules to recommend
ISO 21266-2:2018 Road vehicles – Compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2) and hydrogen/natural gas blends fuelsystems – Part 2: Test methods• Good reference document. However, the group doesn’t have the experience in fuelling vehicles with a blend.
Group doesn’t know many projects of this type
AS 2885 - - - -:2018 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum
Part 0: General requirements
Part 1: Design and construction
Part 2: Welding
Part 3: Operation and maintenancePart 4: Submarine pipeline systems
Part 5: Field pressure testing
Part 6: Pipeline safety management• Don’t allow any meaningful amounts of hydrogen (update under way in Australia). CoP currently being published(Hydrogen Pipeline Code of Practice)46 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Table C1 – Standards review with specific commentary continued
AS/NZS 4645 - - - -:2018 Gas distribution networks
Part 1: Network management
Part 2: Steel pipe systems
Part 3: Plastics pipe systems• Standards allow up to 15% hydrogen already. Consensus within group is that this standard might be appropriate
for a number of years, as reaching 20% in distribution networks could be 10 years away
ASME B31.12 – 2019 Hydrogen piping and pipelines• This is the hydrogen pipelines standard. New hydrogen pipelines use this standard
ASME B31.3 – 2020 Process piping• Currently used in New Zealand, so no need to adopt ISO 15649
ISO 15649:2001 Petroleum and natural gas industries – Piping• Upstream standard for designing production facilities. Not appropriate for transmission and distribution.
References ASME B31.3 and focuses on natural gas. ASME B31.3 is the standard normally used in New Zealand47

Standards New Zealand

Appendix D – Nomenclature
Abbreviations have the following meanings:
APEC

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation

CCC

Climate Change Commission

CCS

carbon capture and storage

CCU

carbon capture and utilisation

CGH2

compressed hydrogen gas

CHP

combined heat and power

CoP

code of practiceDC

direct current

DOE

United States Department of Energy

EDB

electricity distribution business

EU

European Union

FC

fuel cell

FCEV

fuel cell electric vehicle

GHG

greenhouse gas

GSMRgas safety & management regulations

H2hydrogen molecule (two atoms)

HDPE

high-density polyethyleneHEhydrogen embrittlement

HGV

heavy goods vehicle

HHV

higher heating value

HRS

hydrogen refuelling station

HSNO

hazardous substances and new organisms

HSW

health and safety at work

IGC

Industrial Gases CouncilktkilotonnekWekilowatt (electric)

48 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

LFL

lower flammability limit

LH2

liquid hydrogen

LHV

lower heating value

LNG

liquefied natural gas

LPG

liquefied petroleum gas

MAOPmaximum allowable operating pressure

MBIE

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment – Hīkina Whakatutuki

MCH

methylcyclohexane

MDPE

medium-density polyethyleneNGnatural gas

NTS

National Transmission System

NZ-ETSNew Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme

O&M

operations & maintenanceOECD

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

OEM

original equipment manufacturer

P2G

power-to-gas

PEpolyethylene

PEM

polymer electrolyte membrane

PJ

petajoule

PSA

pressure swing adsorption

R&D

research & development

RES

renewable energy source

SMR

steam methane reforming

SMS

safety management systems

SOI

statement of intent

TAG

technical advisory group

TOL

tolueneUPS

uninterruptible power supply

Hydrogen standards review | 49

Standards New Zealand

Table D1 – Unit conversions
Conversions

Order of magnitude

1 PJ = 277.8 GWhPeta (P) = 1015

1 PJ = 8.33 kt H2

Tera (T) = 1012

1 TWh = 3.6 PJ

Giga (G) = 109

1 TWh = 30.03 kt H2

Mega (M) = 106

1 kg H2 = 120 MJ (LHV)

kilo (k) = 103

1 kg H2 = 33.33 kWh (LHV)n/a

1 bar (1.013) = 100 kPa, 14.503 psi = 1 atmosphere @ sea leveln/aTable D2 – Hydrogen physical properties – Fuel comparator
Property

HydrogenNatural gas

PetrolDieselDensity (vapour)

0.0841 kg/m3

0.712 kg/m3

3.9 kg/m3

4.5 kg/m3

Density (liquid)70.7 kg/m3

430.0 kg/m3

745.0 kg/m3

846.0 kg/m3(at 1 bar)(-423.4°F; -253°C)(-259°F; -162°C)(60°F; 15°C)(60°F; 15°C)

Boiling point (liquid to vapour)-253°C-162°C

95°C

282 – 338°C

Energy per unit of mass

120.0 MJ/kg

55.0 MJ/kg

44.0 MJ/kg

42.8 MJ/kg(at 32°F or 0°C, 1 bar, LHV)

(33.33 kWh/kg)(15.27 kWh/kg)(12.22 kWh/kg)(11.88 kWh/kg)

Specific energy density liquefied

10.0 MJ/L

20.3 MJ/L

32.2 MJ/L

35.7 MJ/L

4 – 74.2%

3.1 – 15%

1.4 – 7.6%

3.9 – 16.9%

Auto ignition temperature

585°C

482°C

280°C

210°C

Ignition energy

0.011 MJ

0.24 MJ

0.8 MJ

20.0 MJ(at 60°F; 15°C, 1 bar)(at 1 bar)(at 60°F or 15°C, 1 bar, LHV)
Ignition range(in air by volume)

Note – kg/m3 = kilograms per cubic metre; LHV = lower heating value; MJ = megajoule; MJ/kg = megajoules per kilogram; MJ/L = megajoules per litre.

50 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New Zealand

Table D3 – Hydrogen compressibility factor
Pressure (MPa)Compressibility

0.1013

1

5

1.032

10

1.065

15

1.098

20

1.132

25

1.166

30

1.201

35

1.236

40

1.272

50

1.344

60

1.416

70

1.489

80

1.560

90

1.632

100

1.702

Hydrogen standards review | 51

Standards New Zealand

Appendix E – Referenced documents
Reference is made in this document to the following:
New Zealand standards
NZS 5255:2014 + A1

Safety verification of existing gas installations

NZS 5258

Gas distribution networks

NZS 5259

Gas measurement

NZS 5266

Safety of gas appliances

NZS 7901

Electricity and gas industries – Safety management systems for public safety

Joint Australian/New Zealand standards
AS/NZS 2885.1

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 1: Design and construction

AS/NZS 2885.2

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 2: Welding

AS/NZS 2885.4

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 4: Submarine pipelines

AS/NZS 2885.5

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 5: Field pressure testing

AS/NZS 2885.6

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Part 6: Pipeline safety management

AS/NZS 3760 + A2

In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment

AS/NZS 3820

Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment

AS/NZS 4645.1

Gas distribution networks – Part 1: Network management

AS/NZS 4645.2

Gas distribution networks – Part 2: Steel pipe systems

AS/NZS 4645.3

Gas distribution networks – Part 3: Plastic pipe systems

AS/NZS ISO/IEC 17020	Conformity assessment – Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies
performing inspection
NZS/AS 2885.3

Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Operation and maintenance

NZS/AS 3645.1

Essential requirements for gas equipment – Part 1: Essential safety

NZS/AS 3645.2

Essential requirements for gas equipment – Part 2: CertificationNZS ISO/CIE 17025

General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories

52 | Hydrogen standards review

Standards New ZealandInternational standards
ASME B31.12

Hydrogen piping and pipelines

ASME B31.3

Hydrogen piping and pipelines

BSI PAS 4444

Hydrogen-fired gas appliances

ISO 11114-4	Transportable gas cylinders – Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials with gas contents –Part 4: Test methods for selecting steels resistant to hydrogen embrittlement
ISO 13984

Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuelling system interface

ISO 13985

Liquid hydrogen – Land vehicle fuel tanks

ISO TR 15916

Basic considerations for the safety of hydrogen systems

ISO 15649

Petroleum and natural gas industries – Piping

ISO 1611

Transportable gas storage devices – Hydrogen absorbed in reversible metal hydride

ISO 1728

Gaseous hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices

ISO 19880 – 8

Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 8: Fuel quality control

ISO 19880 – 8: 2019/DAM-1	Gaseous hydrogen – Fuelling stations – Part 8: Fuel quality control – Amendment 1
ISO 21266.2	Road vehicles – Compressed gaseous hydrogen (CGH2) and hydrogen/natural gas blends
fuel systems – Part 2: Test methods
ISO 23273	Fuel cell road vehicles – Safety specifications – Protection against hydrogen hazards forvehicles fuelled with compressed hydrogen
OIML R 117-1	Dynamic measuring systems for liquids other than water – Part 1: Metrological andtechnical requirements
OIML R 139-1	Compressed gaseous fuel measuring systems for vehicles – Part 1: Metrological andtechnical requirements

Other publications and sources
C-Job Naval Architects. Undated. LH2 Europe & C-Job – Liquid hydrogen tanker. Retrieved March 2023, from https://c-job.
com/projects/liquid-hydrogen-tanker/
Centro Ricerche Fiat. Undated. International standard and regulation bodies dealing with H2 and FC vehicles. Image
adapted from Informal document GRB-53. Retrieved April 2023, from https://unece.org/DAM/trans/doc/2011/wp29grb/ECETRANS-WP29-GRB-53-inf10e.pdf
Electricity Authority. 2021. Authority publishes initial review into 9 August electricity cuts. Retrieved February 2023, fromhttps://www.ea.govt.nz/news/press-release/authority-publishes-initial-review-into-9-august-electricity-cuts/
Firstgas Group. 2021. New Zealand H2 pipeline feasibility technical report. Firstgas Group. Retrieved April 2023, fromhttps://firstgas.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/Firstgas-Hydrogen-Pipeline-Network-Trial-FINAL.pdf
Fitzgerald, S. 2021. Multiple tugboats assisting cargo ship Maersk Evora to maneuver into the Port of Oakland, the fifthbusiest port in the United States [Photograph]. Shutterstock. Retrieved April 2023, from https://www.shutterstock.com/
image-photo/oakland-ca-mar-10-2021-multiple-1933536704
Hagemann Snabe, J. 2021. Dreams and details for a decarbonized future. Retrieved March 2023, from https://www.ted.com/
talks/jim_hagemann_snabe_dreams_and_details_for_a_decarbonized_future/transcript
Hydrogen standards review | 53

Standards New ZealandKalousek V, Wang P, Minegishi T, Hisatomi T, Nakagawa K, Oshima S, Kobori Y, Kubota J, and Domen K. 2014. ‘Conversionof toluene and water to methylcyclohexane and oxygen using niobium-doped strontium titanate photoelectrodes.’ChemSusChem, 2014, 7(9). Retrieved February 2023, from https://chemistry-europe.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/
cssc.201402133
Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR). Undated. What are energy vectors? Retrieved March 2023, from: https://www.kbr.com/sites/
default/files/2021-01/What-are-Energy-Vectors.pdf
Koleva, M, and Melaina, M. 2021. DOE hydrogen program record – Hydrogen fueling stations cost. US Department of Energy,
Washington. Retrieved March 2023, from https://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/pdfs/21002-hydrogen-fueling-station-cost.pdf
Ministry for the Environment. 2021. New Zealand’s greenhouse gas inventory 1990–2019. Wellington: MfE.
Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment. 2019. A vision for hydrogen in New Zealand – Green paper.
Wellington: MBIE.
Mueller, D. 2018. Microgrids: Use cases and power quality considerations [IEEE webinar]. Retrieved March 2023, fromhttps://smartgrid.ieee.org/resources/webinars/customer/microgrids-use-cases-and-power-quality-considerations
Wegener, J. 2019. Developments in green hydrogen production and use in Germany [slides from the H2FC Supergenconference]. Retrieved March 2023, from: https://www.h2fcsupergen.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Jan-Wegener_
NOW_Developments-in-Green-Hydrogen-production-and-use-in-Germany.pdf

New Zealand legislation
The following legislation is applicable to this review:
Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010
Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010
Health and Safety in Employment (Pressure Equipment, Cranes, and Passenger Ropeways) Regulations 1999
Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016
Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017
Health and Safety at Work (Major Hazard Facilities) Regulations 2016
Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 Rule 45001/1

Websiteswww.nzta.govt.nz
www.legislation.govt.nz
www.worksafe.govt.nz

Latest revisions
Users of this report should ensure that their copies of the above-mentioned New Zealand standards are the latest revisions.
Amendments to referenced New Zealand and joint Australian/New Zealand standards can be found on the Standards
New Zealand website.

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