Advancing hydrogen safety and standardization in Türkiye's clean energy transition: Challenges and policy recommendations

Abstract

Hydrogen is an important component of a green energy transformation but also presents specific safety issues due to its character. Türkiye's recent National Hydrogen Strategy (2023) offers ambitious targets (2 GW in 2030, 5 GW in 2035, 70 GW in 2053) for the production of green hydrogen, highlighting hydrogen's role in its energy future. This vision seeks to establish the country as a regional hub for green hydrogen and strengthen its long-term energy security. However, the realization of this strategy is jeopardized by the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework and mandatory safety standards. Current national regulations remain fragmented, lacking harmonized codes, certification systems, and a clear legal foundation for hydrogen safety across the value chain. This gap risks undermining safe implementation, public trust, and the ability to attract international investment. This study analyzes hydrogen safety considerations at all stages (production, storage, transport, and use) and addresses worldwide and EU standardization platforms, with a focus on their importance for Türkiye. It has been observed that although Türkiye has a range of strategic goals towards renewable energy resources, policies and standards remain insufficient. Alignment with international standards and continued R&D and pilot activities is necessary to build public trust and secure, sustainable development of Türkiye's hydrogen economy.

Keywords

• Hydrogen energy
• Hydrogen safety
• Hydrogen standards
• Risk management

Kaynakça

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