3.3.0 Introduction

The approval process for installation of hydrogen and fuel cell equipment varies between EU member states. The process may depend on whether the installation is in a work environment (industrial) or a residential environment, and the fact that different authorities have responsibility for the industrial and residential permitting procedures.

Furthermore, the process may depend on the fuel used. As some fuel cells, especially those providing combined heat and power, operate on natural gas, these fuel cells may qualify under existing regulations and be treated similarly to a boiler for permitting. For fuel cells operating on other fuels, in particular hydrogen which is not currently covered by existing regulations as a fuel gas, more time may be required for preparing technical information for the permitting authority, and for the review of that information.