Assigning priorities to actions in a pipeline transporting hydrogen based on a multicriteria decision model

Nowadays there is a pressing need to implement changes in the global energy structure, such that it incorporates new features and changes the way that we use fossil fuels. In this scenario, hydrogen is projected as the fuel of the future. Among the possible modes that can be used for its transportation, the pipeline is singled out as it is the safest and the most economically viable means of transporting large quantities of the gas. However, accidents to pipelines have been recorded and they often result in catastrophic consequences for society. In this context, this paper proposes novelties in multidimensional risk assessment for the transportation of hydrogen by pipeline. Thus, a multicriteria decision model is proposed, using multiattribute utility theory, which incorporates the behavior of a decision maker and considers three dimensions of risk assessment: the human, financial and environmental dimensions. By taking these into consideration, the decision maker may well get precious and differentiated information about the risk management of pipelines.