DNV Issues Offshore Hydrogen Pipeline Guidance Backed by H2Pipe JIP

DNV has released new guidance for offshore hydrogen pipelines, addressing design, safety and material challenges as operators look to scale hydrogen infrastructure.

(P&GJ) — DNV has released new guidance aimed at supporting the design and operation of offshore hydrogen pipelines, as the industry works to address technical challenges tied to transporting hydrogen and hydrogen blends.

The recommended practice, DNV RP F123, was developed through the H2Pipe Joint Industry Project (JIP), which has brought together dozens of companies since 2021 to consolidate research, testing and operational experience into engineering guidance.

The document focuses on hydrogen-specific risks, including material performance and issues such as embrittlement, and is intended to support both new pipeline developments and the requalification of existing offshore infrastructure.

Philippe Darcis, chairman of the H2Pipe JIP steering committee and pipeline technology senior director at Tenaris, said the effort is aimed at translating industry data into practical tools for project development.

“The real value of the H2Pipe JIP lies in turning shared data into credible, site-ready guidance that engineers can use to scale hydrogen infrastructure,” Darcis said. “This practical tool helps reduce the unknowns that often stall investment and provides a basis for decision-making with greater confidence in safety and performance.”

DNV said the guidance builds on its existing submarine pipeline standard, providing additional direction tailored specifically to hydrogen service, including design limits, material suitability and operational requirements.

The next phase of the H2Pipe JIP will focus on large-scale testing, as industry participants continue efforts to support broader deployment of offshore hydrogen pipeline infrastructure.