Risk-based Regulatory Design for the Safe Use of Hydrogen
Low-emission hydrogen is expected to play an important role in the energy transition to tackle the climate crisis. It can decarbonate “hard-to-abate” sectors still relying on fossil fuels, turn low-carbon electricity into a fuel that can be transported using pipelines and provide a green transport alternative, in particular for heavy-duty and long-distance transport. Given its potential to combat climate change, it can allow for a net reduction in societal risks if managed responsibly. However, while its potential is widely acknowledged, its application is not yet meeting ambitions. Regulation is crucial to facilitate its application and ensure its safety. This report analyses trends, risks, and regulation of hydrogen technologies across economies. It supports the use of low-emission hydrogen as part of the energy transition, by making recommendations for effective risk-based regulation, regulatory delivery and governance.
Executive summary
This report was prepared at the request of the Dutch government and funded by the European Commission’s (EC) Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM). The findings and recommendations in the report are tailored to the Dutch context but may be relevant for other countries, taking into account contextual specificities. It aims to support the transition towards wide-spread use of low-emission hydrogen, by developing a set of recommendations on its regulation and governance. To do so, the report analyses six distinct scenarios that cover different parts of the hydrogen lifecycle from production to usage. These scenarios have been selected at the request of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy.
Also available in: French
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