PENN VALLEY, PA — As the global energy sector shifts towards sustainability, the integration of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) and Hydrogen (H2) into existing natural gas infrastructures presents both opportunities and challenges. These renewable gases are seen as crucial in reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy independence from fossil fuels. However, their introduction into traditional pipeline systems necessitates significant changes in measurement and analytical practices.
Historically, natural gas systems have been designed to handle fossil gas flows in a predictable manner. The emergence of RNG and hydrogen requires a reevaluation of these systems, particularly in how gases are measured and analyzed. Hydrogen, in particular, presents unique challenges due to its properties. Traditional gas analyzers, which were not designed to detect hydrogen, often fail to measure it accurately because hydrogen is either not present in fossil mixtures or is used as a carrier gas in the measurement process.
“The measurement of hydrogen and its safe handling within measurement and analyzer systems continues to be a challenge,” noted Thompson. Hydrogen’s reactivity and capacity to permeate materials like metals and elastomers complicate its integration into existing systems. Additionally, the fatigue growth in steel pipes due to hydrogen and changes in gas composition during storage add layers of complexity.
The current scarcity of helium, a common carrier gas, has led many operators to switch to hydrogen for their analytical instruments, thus complicating the detection of hydrogen in gas streams. This issue highlights the need for updated technology capable of accurately measuring hydrogen levels in mixed gas environments.
Tom Gellrich, President & CEO of the H2-CCS Network, expressed the importance of addressing these challenges at industry gatherings. “We are pleased to have Ken speak again at this year’s Appalachian Hydrogen & Carbon Capture Conference VI,” he commented, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue about hydrogen’s role in future energy solutions.
The integration of RNG and hydrogen into the natural gas network is essential for the energy transition. However, it requires the industry to adapt its current technologies and methodologies to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability. As the sector evolves, overcoming these technical obstacles will be pivotal in realizing the full potential of renewable gas solutions.
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