Compressed hydrogen storage is a critical component of the hydrogen economy, enabling the safe and efficient handling of hydrogen gas for various applications. Given its high flammability and low energy density at ambient conditions, stringent regulations govern its design, manufacturing, and operation worldwide. Key regulatory frameworks include the European Union’s Pressure Equipment Directive, the United States Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration rules, and diverse standards across Asia. These regulations ensure safety, interoperability, and reliability while reflecting regional technological and industrial priorities.

The European Union’s regulatory framework for compressed hydrogen storage is primarily defined by the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), which classifies storage systems based on pressure and volume. The PED mandates conformity assessments for equipment operating above specific thresholds, requiring adherence to harmonized standards such as EN 13445 for unfired pressure vessels. Additionally, the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) imposes strict requirements for hydrogen transport, influencing stationary and mobile storage solutions. The EU also follows ISO 19880-1 for hydrogen fueling stations, ensuring compatibility across member states.

In the United States, compressed hydrogen storage falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) outlines design, testing, and operational requirements for hydrogen containers, particularly for transportation and refueling infrastructure. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 3, provides technical standards for high-pressure vessels, including those used in hydrogen storage. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2, Hydrogen Technologies Code, further supplements these regulations by addressing fire safety and risk mitigation.

Asia presents a more fragmented regulatory landscape due to varying levels of hydrogen infrastructure development. Japan, a leader in hydrogen adoption, enforces the High-Pressure Gas Safety Act, which mandates rigorous testing and certification for hydrogen storage systems. The Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) align with international norms but include additional safety measures tailored to the country’s seismic activity. South Korea’s regulations are similarly advanced, with the Korea Gas Safety Corporation overseeing compliance with the High-Pressure Gas Safety Control Act. China, while rapidly expanding its hydrogen sector, relies on GB standards for pressure equipment, though enforcement and standardization efforts are still evolving compared to the EU or US.

Key disparities among these regions include differences in allowable operating pressures, material specifications, and certification processes. For instance, the EU’s PED emphasizes risk-based categorization, while US regulations prioritize performance-based standards. Asian standards often incorporate localized environmental and safety considerations, such as earthquake resilience in Japan. These variations can create challenges for global supply chains, necessitating harmonization efforts through international organizations like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Safety remains a universal priority across all regions. Regulations universally address hydrogen embrittlement, leak prevention, and fire hazards. Material compatibility is strictly enforced, with austenitic stainless steels and composite materials commonly approved for hydrogen service. Testing protocols, including burst tests, cycle tests, and non-destructive evaluations, are mandated to validate storage system integrity.

Despite these commonalities, operational requirements diverge significantly. The EU and US maintain detailed documentation and reporting obligations for hydrogen storage facilities, whereas some Asian jurisdictions impose more prescriptive design rules. For example, Japan requires periodic inspections at shorter intervals compared to the US, reflecting its conservative safety approach.

Looking ahead, regulatory frameworks are expected to evolve in response to technological advancements such as higher-pressure storage and novel materials. International collaboration will be essential to address emerging challenges while maintaining safety and fostering global trade. The absence of a unified global standard underscores the need for continued dialogue among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and research institutions.

In summary, compressed hydrogen storage regulations are shaped by regional priorities, industrial capabilities, and risk tolerance. The EU’s PED, US DOT/PHMSA rules, and Asian standards each contribute to a robust but varied global framework. Understanding these differences is crucial for stakeholders navigating the hydrogen economy, ensuring compliance while optimizing system performance.