The US Department of Energy (DOE)’s Introduction to hydrogen for code officials is an online training course providing an overview of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, how these technologies are used in real-world applications, and references for related codes and standards.

Hydrogen isn’t a primary energy source. Instead, it’s an energy carrier (like electricity), meaning that it can store and deliver energy in an easily usable form. Hydrogen’s volumetric energy content is relatively low. Compared to natural gas, hydrogen—when burned—releases only one-third the energy per cubic foot of gas. Because of its low molecular weight, however, hydrogen has the highest energy content per pound of any fuel.

The course consists of four modules:

• Hydrogen and fuel cell technology basics
• Hydrogen and fuel cell applications
• Hydrogen fueling stations
• Fuel cell facilities

A short quiz is offered at the end of each module. At the end of the course, you may print a certificate of completion that tallies your quiz score.

In addition, the course features a library section with supplementary information including publications, related links, and a glossary of terms used in the course.

Read the text version of Introduction to hydrogen for code officials.

Access the course online here.