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A Safe and Innovative Hydrogen Storage Solution for NZ’s First Green Hydrogen Refuelling Station

A Safe and Innovative Hydrogen Storage Solution for NZ’s First Green Hydrogen Refuelling Station A Safe and Innovative Hydrogen Storage Solution for NZ’s First Green Hydrogen Refuelling Station

MB Century, in collaboration with Halcyon Green Hydrogen*, embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop a hydrogen storage and distribution facility in Wiri, Auckland. Recognising the project's unique complexities and the critical nature of hydrogen as a highly combustible material, MB Century called on Edison to support the electrical design.

Halcyon Green Hydrogen’s hydrogen refuelling station in Wiri is an innovative step in the growth of hydrogen energy in New Zealand. The facility stores and distributes hydrogen from New Zealand’s first green hydrogen production facility at the Mōkai geothermal plant near Taupō.

This novel project presented unique challenges and risks. MB Century sought electrical engineering services to support the facility’s design and ensure its successful connection to Vector’s network.

The project required intricate electrical design solutions to mitigate the risks associated with hydrogen’s combustibility. Additionally, the facility was situated in a high-density industrial area, demanding stringent safety measures to protect the facility and the surrounding community.

Key challenges included:

  • Designing robust earthing and lightning protection systems: Given hydrogen's sensitivity to static electricity, it was vital to mitigate lightning events so that they would not trigger a static charge, preventing potential combustion.
  • Navigating cost implications: The civil works required for the lightning protection system were significant, making it essential to balance safety with cost-effectiveness.
  • Coordinating with Vector: The facility needed to connect seamlessly with Vector’s network, requiring precise design and consistent communication to smooth integration and ensure compliance.


Solution

Experience gained on the Mōkai geothermal plant enabled Edison to deliver a comprehensive suite of design solutions:

  • Detailed Electrical Design: Provided a full range of design documents, including earthing and lightning reports, installation specifications, material lists, and detailed drawings. These were crafted to meet and exceed New Zealand and Australian standards (ASNZS3000), resulting in a first-time pass in audits and a smooth path to project completion.
  • Safety in Design (SiD): A cornerstone of Edison's approach was emphasising safety for those directly involved in operating the facility and the wider community. This commitment was reflected in every design aspect, from the electrical diagrams to the site layout.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitated communication and common understanding between MB Century, Obayashi (joint venture partner of Halcyon Green Hydrogen), and Vector, aligning all parties.


Key Results

Halcyon Green Hydrogen’s first green hydrogen refuelling station successfully opened in April 2024. This landmark achievement has created a template for developing hydrogen refuelling stations across New Zealand.

  • Robust design: Compliant with ASNZS3000 standards
  • Enhanced Safety: The robust electrical design allows safe facility operations, with systems in place to protect against electrical faults and lightning-related risks.
  • Cost Efficiency: By applying a practical lens, Edison’s designs were validated by BECA consultants as adequate and not over-engineered, upholding principles of SiD.
  • Knowledge Transfer: Collaboration and communication between stakeholders facilitated knowledge sharing of New Zealand’s safety standards and requirements so that these can be leveraged for future hydrogen projects.


*Halcyon Green Hydrogen is a joint venture partnership between Tuaropaki Trust and Obayashi Corporation.

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