Sustainable Energy Sources

RFNBO Certification - Hydrogen and Derivatives

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The Energy Supply of the Future

Climate-neutral and low-emission

The transformation of the energy system toward climate neutrality is one of the European Union’s central policy goals. Through the European Green Deal and the European Climate Law, the EU has committed to becoming greenhouse gas neutral by 2050 at the latest. Since a large portion of emissions stems from the energy sector, the transition to renewable and climate-friendly energy sources plays a key role. Particularly in sectors that are difficult to electrify—such as industry, transportation, and the chemical sector—sustainable energy sources like hydrogen and its derivatives will be indispensable in the future. For these energy sources to fulfill their climate-mitigating role, clear rules, transparent verification, and reliable certification are needed. RFNBO certification builds trust and ensures comparability. It guarantees that compliance with legal requirements can be verified and that emissions are accurately accounted for throughout the entire supply chain. In addition, it provides the foundation for your market access as well as for counting toward statutory quotas and climate targets.

The Regulatory Framework of the European Union

To achieve its climate goals, the European Union has developed a uniform classification system for sustainable energy sources. This system includes various categories with different regulatory requirements.

In the area of non-biogenic energy sources, the focus is particularly on renewable fuels of non-biogenic origin (RFNBO). These are produced from renewable energy sources and make an important contribution to the decarbonization of industry and transportation. RFNBO include hydrogen and its derivatives.

RFNBO

DVGW CERT is a certification body recognized by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) for RFNBO and offers certification under the CertifHy EU RFNBO Voluntary Scheme throughout the entire certification cycle and across the entire value chain.

RFNBO (Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin) are renewable motor fuels and combustion fuels of non-biogenic origin for industry and transportation. The energy content of these RFNBO comes from renewable, non-biogenic energy sources, such as electricity generated from wind, solar, and hydropower. Electrolytic hydrogen is the best-known example, but derivatives such as ammonia and e-fuels also fall into this category.

RFNBO Certification Process

Initial certification typically takes place upon the system’s commissioning through an on-site audit by DVGW CERT. Upon successful completion of the audit, the certificate is issued for a one-year certification cycle. Following initial certification, an inspection of the operating data is conducted within the first six months, usually via a remote audit.

To maintain RFNBO certification, annual recertification is required; depending on the risk assessment, this takes the form of either a remote or on-site audit. Pre-certification can also be conducted in collaboration with CertifHy as early as the planning phase.

Five steps to RFNBO certification: From application, review, and audit to the independent certification decision, we guide you through the entire process. Upon successful completion, you will receive the RFNBO certificate under the CertifHy EU RFNBO Voluntary Scheme.

Your Trusted Partner for RFNBO Certification

We combine technical expertise in the hydrogen sector with independent and trustworthy certification.

Thanks to our experienced auditors, streamlined communication channels, and our connection to the DVGW network, we provide companies with efficient and practical support on their path to RFNBO certification.

Price Estimate for Your RFNBO Project

Would you like a cost estimate? Request your personalized cost estimate now: Cost Estimate

We’d be happy to provide you with more information about the certification process. Contact us now at info@dvgw-cert.com.