Effective Application of QRA to Hydrogen Fueling Operations

This paper focuses on the challenges associated with assessing risk for hydrogen fueling operations. Currently, the commonly used method for assessing risks involves a PHA/LOPA approach to identify potential consequences and associated frequencies to determine scenario-based operational risks. In addition, the “worst case consequence” event(s) is typically reviewed to determine the level of safeguards required for safe operation. However, this approach to quantifying hydrogen fueling operational risk fails to address the lower consequences, higher frequency events that may drive site risk profiles.

The hydrogen fueling industry has already experienced events, including a recent explosion in Norway that resulted from an improperly-installed plug on a high-pressure storage tank. While this incident resulted in limited damage, it called into question the safety of an up-and-coming technology. With a shift towards clean energy and the projection that hydrogen production may be cost competitive before 2030, many companies are investing in this technology as part of their overall corporate portfolios. It is essential to define the right approach to safety in the initial hydrogen network design and implementation in order to mitigate the potential for a negative perception towards the technology.

A properly conducted risk analysis for hydrogen fueling systems should incorporate the best practice work currently being done through the PHA/LOPA process with more quantitative approaches to better understand the risk profile. This paper addresses how a comprehensive scenario-based approach that considers existing process safeguards, as well as new research in the explosion and ignition characteristics of hydrogen, can be utilized to determine quantitative risk profiles. The quantitative analysis enables optimization of station locations, station layouts, and selection of safeguards to provide decision-makers with an objective framework to mange risk exposure to a tolerable level. Additional challenges to consider will also be addressed to promote discussion and improve future planning in the US.