The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has notified the Static and Mobile Pressure Vessels (Unfired) (Amendment) Rules, 2025. The notification amends the original 2016 rules to accommodate the safe storage, transport, and dispensing of compressed and liquefied hydrogen fuels, a key enabler in India’s transition to cleaner energy.
The amendment, issued under the Explosives Act, 1884, integrates global standards and emerging technologies into India’s regulatory framework. With an emphasis on green hydrogen infrastructure, these updated rules are expected to catalyze investments and innovation in the hydrogen fuel sector, from electrolysers and storage systems to automotive hydrogen refueling stations.
Hydrogen Economy Takes Center Stage
One of the core focuses of the 2025 amendment is the formal introduction of bulk and non-bulk hydrogen gas systems, liquefied hydrogen (LH₂), and compressed hydrogen gas (CHG) definitions. It establishes rigorous technical and operational benchmarks for these systems—setting the stage for the development of national hydrogen corridors and fuel dispensing infrastructure.
Key definitions added include:
- Bulk Hydrogen Compressed Gas System: Defined as storage above 5000 SCF, covering compressors, generation units, mobile cascades, and tube banks.
- Bulk Liquefied Hydrogen System: Includes cryogenic storage exceeding 1000 liters but under 283,906 liters.
- Compressed Hydrogen Gas (CHG) and Liquefied Hydrogen (LH₂): Defined with reference to Indian (IS 16061) and international (ISO 14687) fuel quality standards.
The amendment also formally recognizes Green Hydrogen as hydrogen with a well-to-gate emission of ≤2 kg CO₂ per kg of H₂, supporting India’s commitment to decarbonization under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Safety, Licensing, and Digitalization
In response to industry feedback and safety concerns, the amended rules strengthen design, operation, and maintenance standards for hydrogen installations and other gaseous fuels. All compressed hydrogen gas dispensing stations must now adhere to stringent protocols under NFPA-2 and ISO 19880 standards.
A significant procedural upgrade is the mandatory digital submission of all documents and drawings. Rule 11A mandates an online interface for all licensing processes, ensuring transparency and reducing delays.
The rules also extend the validity of licenses from 5 to 10 years, reducing administrative burdens and providing long-term stability to investors.
Support for Startups, MSMEs, and Women Entrepreneurs
Recognizing the role of startups and small enterprises in driving clean tech innovation, the 2025 amendment introduces progressive fee concessions. For licenses and approvals under Schedule I:
- Startups and MSMEs receive 50% fee reductions.
- Women entrepreneurs enjoy up to 80% discount, with fees capped as low as ₹1,000 in certain categories.
These incentives are expected to open the door to a more diverse and inclusive energy sector, especially in areas like hydrogen fueling and cryogenic equipment manufacturing.
Schedule V: The New Hydrogen Safety Blueprint
A major addition is Schedule V, dedicated exclusively to LH₂ storage, handling, transportation, and dispensing. It lays out comprehensive safety standards for:
- Cryogenic tank design and insulation
- Pressure vessel materials
- Site layout and fire safety
- Earthquake and wind resistance
- Hydrogen leak detection and emergency shutdown systems
Importantly, Schedule V restricts co-location of hydrogen fuel with other automotive fuels unless expressly permitted by the Chief Controller, reflecting the unique handling needs of cryogenic hydrogen.
Other Key Reforms
- Operating conditions for hydrogen fuel dispensing. Vehicles cannot be refueled while running, and simultaneous unloading and dispensing are prohibited.
- Extensive documentation including HAZOP studies, risk assessments, and emergency response plans for LH₂ installations.
- Reinforced safety mandates for bonding, grounding, and equipment certification in hydrogen supply chains.
- Special permissions may be granted under trial conditions to encourage R&D and pilot projects in new hydrogen technologies.
Implications and Outlook
The 2025 amendment comes at a crucial juncture when India is poised to become a global hub for green hydrogen production and export. By laying a firm regulatory foundation, the government has signaled its intent to ensure both safety and scalability in the hydrogen fuel ecosystem.
Industry experts believe these reforms will de-risk private investments, encourage localized manufacturing of cryogenic and high-pressure equipment, and accelerate the rollout of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, particularly in sectors like heavy transport, railways, and maritime.
As countries worldwide race to adopt hydrogen as a cornerstone of decarbonization, India’s revamped pressure vessel regulations may become a model for hydrogen governance across emerging economies.
In conclusion, the Static and Mobile Pressure Vessels (Unfired) (Amendment) Rules, 2025 mark a transformative shift toward a hydrogen-powered future—one that is cleaner, safer, and more inclusive.
