Assessing the viability of the ACT natural gas distribution network for reuse as a hydrogen distribution network

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has legislated and aims to be net zero emissions by 2045. Such ambitious targets have implications for the contribution of hydrogen its storage in gas distribution networks Therefore, we need understand now impacts on network transition 100% hydrogen. Assessment viability decarbonising ACT will partly based cost reusing safe reliable That task requires each element natural safety management system evaluated. This article describes construction a test facility Canberra, Australia used identify issues raised use medium pressure network, consisting nylon polyethylene (PE) as means identifying measures necessary ensure ongoing validity network's regulatory case. Evoenergy (the ACT's company) constructed Test Facility, incorporating an electrolyser, supply reduction mixing skid replica domestic installation with appliances. Jointly National University (ANU) Canberra Institute Technology (CIT) Company commenced program “bench testing”, initially gaps case specifically focusing materials, work practices systems ACT. is designed assess: • Materials including aged materials components Construction techniques both greenfield live Purging filling Leak detection underground above ground Emergency response make Issues associated light commercial To educate train: Technicians fitters infrastructure services responding related emergencies environment; manage public perceptions environment. enviable record transport, gas. owned operated one newest leveraged off best build network. paper addresses major relating production/storage, consumer end injected into existing networks. analysis guided Safety Management System. Hydrogen Testing Facility described provide tools evaluation matters Australia-wide. date confirmed that pipe their respective jointing can contain at pressures also current joints are suitable service. finding subject variation attributable staff training skill levels further testing been programmed outlined this paper. isolation clamping simulated repair established standard pressures.