Hydrogen power research is in its relative infancy in Australia. Similarly, as a power source the use of hydrogen is almost nonexistent. The Australian Government is presently developing policy initiatives to develop carbon zero fuel alternatives. As a consequence, a Hydrogen regulatory framework for Hydrogen vehicles, transport and power is in its infancy in Australia.
Conversely, Hydrogen is used as a source of power in Europe, particularly in Scandinavia. Furthermore, hydrogen research is advanced in Europe.
Norway has developed a hydrogen energy vision, and as part of the EEA, is subject to the EC Directives related to standards and safety.
This paper will present the likely regulatory framework for an Australian hydrogen society, drawing from the European (and Norwegian in particular) experience, adapting it to the Australian legal system and present regulatory frameworks for other sources of fuel in Australia. In particular it will focus on the requirements for a adequate regulatory framework for vehicles, transportation of hydrogen, fuelling and refuelling with hydrogen, and fuel cell power plants.
The development of a suitable hydrogen regulatory framework in Australia is important, and failure to do so may be a barrier to commercialisation of hydrogen technologies, or may distort competition.
In assessing other regulatory frameworks and identifying important issues in hydrogen regulation, it is possible for Australia to learn from the European experience, developing a framework that adequate regulates hydrogen power, whilst maintaining standards and safety.