LRQA has strengthened its capabilities through training provided by the Clean Energy Partnership (CEP) to carry out factory acceptance test (FAT) and site acceptance test (SAT) evaluations for hydrogen refuelling stations across Europe.
LRQA has strengthened its capabilities through training provided by the Clean Energy Partnership (CEP) to perform factory acceptance test (FAT) and site acceptance test (SAT) evaluations for hydrogen refuelling stations across Europe. This marks a key milestone in LRQA’s contribution to the global energy transition and the safe expansion of hydrogen infrastructure.
Harmonising acceptance protocols to strengthen hydrogen safety
Over the past decade, the CEP has worked to standardise the acceptance process for hydrogen refuelling stations. Its test and acceptance protocols, now integrated into ISO 19880-1, have been adopted as a mandatory requirement under the EU’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). This means that all acceptance tests must be conducted in accordance with EN 17127 to ensure compliance and safety.
Expanding acceptance capacity across Europe
To meet growing demand, the CEP initially trained the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) to conduct acceptance tests. It also supported fuelling station operators and manufacturers with training and guidance.
Following this, LRQA have successfully completed the required training and can now conduct hydrogen refuelling station evaluations across Europe – supporting industry compliance with EN 17127.
CEP transitions oversight to independent institutions
To drive the expansion of hydrogen mobility, the CEP has progressively transferred the acceptance process to certified testing bodies. By training independent institutions, it has built a scalable framework to meet industry demands efficiently. While no longer directly overseeing approvals, the CEP remains available as a knowledge partner for guidance on EN 17127, particularly for complex cases and special applications.
LRQA: Ensuring safe and compliant hydrogen infrastructure
LRQA's enhanced expertise in hydrogen refuelling station evaluations reinforces its position as a trusted assurance provider for the hydrogen sector.
“Strengthening our expertise in hydrogen refuelling station evaluations is an important step in LRQA’s commitment to supporting the safe and reliable expansion of hydrogen infrastructure. Our knowledge in inspection, certification, and compliance enables us to provide independent and consistent evaluations, helping businesses meet regulatory requirements and drive the transition to cleaner energy.”
Leveraging its technical expertise and international reach, LRQA offers independent evaluations that help businesses meet regulatory requirements and contribute to a safer, more sustainable hydrogen economy.
For more information on LRQA’s hydrogen services and how we can support your compliance needs:
Learn more about services for the hydrogen value chain
