Abstract: A method can be employed to regulate and stably operate a steam reforming system that is operated by steam reforming, that has a capacity utilization level that can be regulated, and that comprises a steam reformer, a hydrogenating and desulfurizing unit that is positioned upstream of the steam reformer and is configured for feedstock desulfurization, and a firing unit of the steam reformer. According to the method, a mandated capacity utilization level for the steam reforming system is established with automated regulation of the following continuously monitored parameter ratios: a hydrogen-to-feedstock ratio in the hydrogenating and desulfurizing unit, a steam-to-carbon ratio in the steam reformer, and a fuel-to-air ratio in the firing unit of the steam reformer.