DETROIT NextEnergy, Detroit?s alternative energy R&D incubator, has signed agreements with DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors to deliver a comprehensive Codes and Standards Project to help build a critical part of the hydrogen future ? delivering hydrogen fuel to vehicles.
The project is a part of the broader U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen Fleet Demonstration and Validation Program grants, which were announced last fall. The purpose of the Codes and Standards Project is to assist states in preparing their government agencies to establish the foundation for permitting and oversight of the hydrogen fuel used in the transportation sector. NextEnergy will serve as the Michigan coordinator Michigan to help DOE developing a national approach to writing codes and standards.
?We?re pleased to partner with Detroit?s Big Three to support the development of codes and standards for commercial hydrogen infrastructure,? said James Croce, CEO of NextEnergy.
NextEnergy will develop:
A database which will be used to document experiences in securing permits for construction, operation and use of publicly accessible hydrogen infrastructure facilities. The database will serve as a resource for stakeholders responsible for the development of hydrogen codes and standards.
Criteria for identifying key permitting authorities at both the state and local levels and their responsibilities for the permitting elements of hydrogen infrastructure. NextEnergy also will work with state and local officials to develop a streamlined permitting and approval process and a permitting guidebook for Michigan.
Templates for hydrogen fueling station design, maintenance, and emergency response. In addition, training and education programs for local officials, including emergency first responders will be delivered in Michigan.
NextEnergy also will work with the Big 3 and DOE to host an annual conference on hydrogen codes and standards issues, recommendations and progress that will include reports from NextEnergy based on data collected and documents produced through this project.
