Advancing Hydrogen Safety: CGA’s Recent Collaborations in the Clean Energy Transition
For nearly 70 years, the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) has been at the forefront of developing standards and guidance for the safe operation of hydrogen systems. As the global focus increasingly shifts towards hydrogen as a key tool in the effort to decarbonize, CGA is ensuring that its safety standards and resources are accessible to all those working in this critical field.
To further this mission, CGA has launched several initiatives aimed at supporting the safe and responsible development of hydrogen technology:
- Safe Hydrogen Project: A comprehensive digital resource providing vital hydrogen safety standards and guidance.
- Global Advocacy: CGA’s technical experts have traveled to hydrogen conferences worldwide, often serving as the sole voice advocating for the safe use of hydrogen.
- Collaborations: CGA has forged partnerships with a wide range of hydrogen-focused organizations and associations.
- Enhanced Resources: CGA has bolstered its internal capabilities to meet the growing demands of the hydrogen economy.
Most recently, CGA has brought its safety messaging and standards directly to the people building the hydrogen economy in the U.S., particularly through collaboration with the federal Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED).
Engaging with the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program
The OCED’s Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program is designed to accelerate the use of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. The initiative aims to establish hydrogen hubs that integrate producers, consumers, and infrastructure to create commercially viable, carbon-free hydrogen systems. More information on this ambitious program can be found here.
One notable hub, the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2), covers Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. MACH2 is particularly focused on advancing hydrogen education and workforce development by collaborating with institutions such as the University of Delaware, Drexel University, and Rowan University. The hub aims to create specialized degree programs, hands-on safety training, and leadership opportunities in hydrogen technologies.
CGA’s engagement with MACH2 began with a web conference, followed by presentations at the Center for Hydrogen Safety Americas Conference in May. The result was a formal request for CGA to provide training for MACH2 members. To meet this need, CGA Technical Manager Rob Early delivered two educational webinars:
- August 27: A session on general hydrogen safety principles, based on ANSI/CGA G-5, Hydrogen.
- September 24: A presentation on hydrogen production technology, utilizing CGA H-17, Guideline for Small Scale Hydrogen Production.
Both presentations were well received, with MACH2 members actively participating and asking numerous questions, further enriching their understanding of hydrogen safety. This knowledge-sharing initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the success of MACH2’s hydrogen education and workforce development goals.
Expanding Engagement with Other Hydrogen Hubs and Universities
CGA is also working to replicate this success with other hydrogen hubs, offering similar training and educational support.
In addition, CGA has engaged with the New York Campus Environmental Resource (NYCER), a consortium of safety, health, and environmental professionals from universities in the New York City metropolitan area. CGA’s relationship with NYCER began when Columbia University sought CGA’s assistance in developing its compressed gases program. This led to increased interest from NYCER members, particularly in hydrogen safety.
To address this, Rob Early delivered a hydrogen safety presentation to NYCER on October 1, referencing multiple CGA publications. This collaboration is another example of CGA’s commitment to ensuring that hydrogen safety standards are integrated into academic programs and across industries.
Looking Ahead
As hydrogen continues to play an increasingly vital role in the global transition to cleaner energy, CGA remains committed to providing the guidance and resources needed to ensure its safe and responsible use. By engaging directly with key stakeholders, including hydrogen hubs and educational institutions, CGA is actively contributing to the development of a safe, sustainable hydrogen economy.