Metrology's Role in Hydrogen Revolution CIM 2023 Round Table

11 May 2023

Metrology's Role in the Hydrogen Revolution Explored at CIM 2023 Round Table

In March, Lyon played host to the 21st International Metrology Congress (CIM 2023) conference, which included a round table where metrology experts discussed issues surrounding hydrogen refuelling. Presented by Annarita Baldan from VSL and chair of the European Metrology Network for Energy Gases, the round table also included TÜV SÜD’s Dr Revata Seneviratne alongside participants from Air Liquide, Hydrogen Europe and AP2E.

The round table, called "Can Metrology Keep Up with the Hydrogen Revolution?", explored the key issues associated with hydrogen refuelling and highlighted ongoing research efforts. Revata gave an update on TUV SUD's new mobile light duty vehicle testing standard and some of the challenges faced in the design, build and commissioning of the facility.

One of the key questions raised focused on obtaining OIML R139 certification and the requirement in France for hydrogen refuelling stations to have subsequent periodic verification once a year. Currently only a limited number of test standards exist that are suitable for verifying hydrogen refuelling stations with respect to OIML R139. Also, due to most test standards being gravimetric systems, the verification process is lengthy and could take up to a week. Thus, verification of hydrogen refuelling station dispensers poses a significant challenge to the station operator.

Participants therefore deliberated on the need to speed up the verification process to minimise downtime at refuelling stations and reduce associated costs. The round table highlighted ongoing efforts to address this issue, particularly through the MetroHyVe 2 project.

Like other countries in Europe, the UK government would also be looking at regulations for hydrogen refuelling stations. TÜV SÜD is therefore developing a flow test standard for light duty vehicle hydrogen refuelling stations which will be the first of its kind in the UK. However, currently no solution has been identified to streamline the testing and verification procedures.

The discussions at CIM 2023 underscored the crucial role of metrology in facilitating the widespread adoption of hydrogen as an alternative fuel. It also highlighted the need for joint research and development to ensure reliable and comparable measurement data for hydrogen refuelling station operators, regulatory bodies and users.

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