Task 42: Underground Hydrogen Storage
Brief
General Objectives
The Task intends to support the acceleration of the safe implementation of UHS through coordinated collaborations and knowledge dissemination. The ambition is to contribute to research within this area, be a technology monitor for ongoing and new activities as well as contribute to the development of a regulatory framework for hydrogen underground storage in the countries involved in the Task.
Specific Objectives
The main objectives of this Task are:
• To provide a comprehensive assessment of the technical (capacity, efficiency, safety, potential of infrastructure re-utilization) and economic feasibility for large-scale UHS development.
• To determine the potential for safe UHS development in the involved countries based on the results of technical and economic feasibility studies, including special limitations due to above-ground use of space and presenting the advantages and disadvantages of onshore and offshore hydrogen storage.
• To establish under which subsurface conditions hydrogen storage in porous reservoirs is technically feasible by conducting relevant laboratory experiments, field measurements and numerical modelling research that help make informed decisions based on a good understanding of the residual risks involved.
• To present business developers and policymakers with general guidelines and recommendations that enhance safe and economic UHS deployment in porous geological reservoirs, salt caverns and other man-made caverns.
• To prevent unnecessary duplication in research activities and seek opportunities for synergy and complementary activities that support the acceleration of UHS while saving time and money
Task Structure
The Task structure incorporates 6 Subtasks (A-F) that are defined according to the main thematic research challenges that are currently in focus by industry, the scientific community and regulators.
Subtask A. Hydrogen conversion and contamination
Subtask B. Storage integrity
Subtask C. Storage performance
Subtask D. Surface facilities, wells and materials
Subtask E. Economics and system integration
Subtask F. Planning, regulation, safety and societal embedding