Fueling the Energy Transition: Regulating Hydrogen Pipelines in the U.S.
The DEMS Economics Seminar series is proud to host
Chiara Lo Prete
(Penn State University)
with Hannah Wiseman
ABSTRACT:
Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, and its versatility and potential to lower emissions make it central for decarbonization purposes. As interest in hydrogen continues to grow in the U.S., one of the primary impediments to the development of a domestic market is uncertainty surrounding the regulatory treatment of future pipeline infrastructure. This presentation examines the legal and regulatory framework for hydrogen pipeline transportation in the U.S. We consider three potential pathways to enable the expansion of an interstate hydrogen pipeline network in the U.S.: (1) blending natural gas and hydrogen in existing gas pipelines, (2) repurposing existing natural gas pipelines to transport pure hydrogen, and (3) building new hydrogen pipelines. For each pathway, we analyze relevant policy and regulatory issues, with a focus on siting approval and regulation of pipeline service. Because no pipelines have yet been converted to carry hydrogen blends, repurposed or built for pure hydrogen transport, we examine analogous cases to identify lessons applicable to future hydrogen pipeline infrastructure. We also contrast the U.S. approach in managing hydrogen infrastructure transitions with that of the European Union.
The seminar will be in presence, Room: 41 - Building U6