3. suitability of Gas Networks Ireland’s assets
to transport a hydrogen blend
• The review was carried out on:
• Distribution assets
• Transmission assets
• Compressor stations and subsea interconnectors
In 2021, 72% of the natural gas used in Ireland was imported from the
UK via the subsea interconnector pipelines which are fed by
compressor stations located in Scotland. The transmission network
transports the natural gas at high pressure around Ireland before it is
reduced to lower pressures for supply to domestic customers and
businesses which are connected to the distribution network.
4. Existing and emerging schemes and regulatory mechanisms – an overview
country Status of H2/PtX standards and certification Other
Australia • No regulation
• Hydrogen GO certification trials
• Zero Carbon Certification Scheme launched in 2020 by
industry actors.
For hydrogen, renewable ammonia and renewable metals
Canada • Developing a Clean Fuel Standard for hydrogen and
biofuels
• CertifHy Canada Scheme is in development; to match the
requirements of the Clean Fuel Standard
• Aims to develop a life cycle approach for its GHG emissions
methodology
China • Several industry standards already in effect, e.g.,
standards for hydrogen energy safety and quality testing
• China Hydrogen Alliance’s Standard defines low-carbon, clean
and renewable hydrogen based on the among on CO2
emitted in kgCO2e per kgH2
Japan • Clean hydrogen’ is not yet clearly defined
• Discussions of establishing standards and a certification
scheme but no progress has been made
• Regional certification scheme for CO2-free hydrogen in the
Aichi Prefecture
• J-Credit Scheme certifies GHG reductions and removals
Uk • Developing a low-carbon and renewable hydrogen
standard
• Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation regulates renewable
transprt fuels (incl. Hydrogen)
Usa • Draft Clean Hydrogen Production Standard (CHPS)
released by DOE
• A proposed lifecycle GHG emissions limit of 4kg CO2e per kg
of hydrogen
• CHPS is not a regulatory standard; a guidance
5. Irish Policy Context
• Government is a commitment to reduce overall greenhouse gas
emissions, committing to an average reduction of 7% per year from
2021 to 2030, a 51% reduction over the decade, and to achieving net
zero emissions by 2050.
• The Programme for Government recognises the importance of
researching and developing green hydrogen for use as a zero-
emission energy source in difficult-to-decarbonise sectors such as
transport and industry.
6. National Energy and Climate Plan
• The National Energy & Climate Plan, which was published in July 2020
and took account of the Climate Action Plan 2019, states that the
production and use of green hydrogen is expected to have a key role
to play in Ireland’s transition to a low carbon economy and society –
in particular as a means to maximise the potential of offshore wind
generation.
• In order to meet our 2030 emissions reduction target, the Climate
Action Plan 2021 commits to carrying out a work programme to
identify a route to deliver 1 to 3 TWh of zero emissions gas (including
green hydrogen) by the end of the decade. C
