Decarbonisation efforts in the energy sector are advancing from high-level feasibility studies to detailed implementation plans, with pipelines recognised as a critical vector for transporting hydrogen and hydrogen blends. Repurposing existing fossil fuel infrastructure introduces complex technical challenges, and most Operator-led studies conclude that further pipeline-specific data are required. This often leaves Operators uncertain about how best to allocate limited resources across large and diverse networks.

This paper presents a practical framework for assessing and prioritising pipelines within a network based on variability in operating stress, pressure cycling, and inferred crack populations. The methodology enables operators to identify the pipelines most at risk or most in need of further data, and to rank candidate pipelines for actions such as crack inspection, fracture toughness testing, or operational modifications (e.g., pressure restrictions).

By systematically highlighting pipelines in the least favourable position to accept hydrogen—due to condition, operating envelope, or data scarcity—the approach reduces complexity at the system level and provides a clear, condition-informed basis for decision-making.