Study: Certification to enable trade

IRENA, together with RMI, conducted a study of existing certification systems around the world to look for gaps that, if not filled, will hinder the development of hydrogen trade. The assessment was conducted by identifying the key components of a functioning hydrogen certification system and comparing these components with existing and emerging hydrogen certification mechanisms. Eight voluntary and five mandatory schemes were assessed. This report is a contribution to the work on the G7 Hydrogen Action Pact – specifically on supporting the creation of regulatory frameworks for low-carbon and renewable hydrogen and its derivatives.

None of the existing hydrogen certification systems are suitable for cross-border trade. In addition, there are gaps in standards and in ecolabelling and certification design, resulting in insufficient information in certificates to allow fair comparison across borders. Significant gaps exist in the following: clear information on greenhouse gas emissions produced during hydrogen production and/or transportation; common standards used; ecolabelling; and compliance with environmental, social and governance criteria. Recommendations to close the gaps and avoid hydrogen market fragmentation are made in the report.

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