Quantitative Risk Assessment for Residential Hydrogen Supply Trailer With 100% Purity

Abstract ATCO Gas & Pipelines plans to deliver 100% gaseous hydrogen to a residential dwelling in Alberta using a temporary supply trailer in 2024. This document introduces a quantitative risk assessment methodology designed for this specific application. The assessment systematically evaluates potential threats arising from equipment failure, improper operational procedures, vandalism, and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, it presents a thorough analysis of the consequences ensuing from the release of hydrogen, both in the presence and absence of ignition. This residence, to be used as a show-home, will utilize pure hydrogen for space and water heating purposes and will serve as a proof-of-concept demonstration to the public, regulators, and industry that hydrogen for residential heating is a viable decarbonization option especially in the extreme cold temperatures experienced in Alberta. Although the equipment employed for this endeavor is conventional for natural gas operations, it’s pure hydrogen application and installation site deviate from the norm. Additionally, threats linked to hydrogen storage have traditionally been confined to industrial settings, where exposure concerns differ. The primary focus of this paper pertains to the vulnerabilities to which the trailer is exposed and the subsequent risk it imposes upon the surrounding residential development. Numerous companies in the natural gas industry are currently investigating the potential of hydrogen as an alternative or supplemental fuel for domestic heating and cooking. They are examining the feasibility of blending hydrogen up to 20% with natural gas, as well as the application of 100% pure hydrogen. To facilitate a smooth and safe transition from natural gas to hydrogen, it is key to thoroughly understand the risks associated with delivering hydrogen to residential areas, homes, and surrounding communities. Conducting detailed quantitative risk assessments is an important step in this process, as it helps to identify and mitigate potential hazards linked to the use of hydrogen in these settings. This comprehensive approach ensures that the adoption of hydrogen as a residential fuel is both safe and efficient.