An effect of cathodic charging conditions on the amount of the beta-NiHx phase formed in nickel electrode in alkaline solutions was studied by means of X-ray diffraction technique. Electrolytic nickel coatings on copper substrate were hydrogenated in KOH, NaOH, LiOH and NH4OH solutions containing promoters such as As2O3, Sb and GeO2. Dependences of the beta-NiHx phase volume fraction on the promotor concentration, charging current density and charging duration were studied. Optimal values of these charging conditions parameters were determined. The volume fraction of the beta-NiHx phase amounted up to similar to56% of 10 mum thick nickel coating. The quantity of nickel hydride did not depend on the alkali and its concentration. Promoters were arranged in the following order of effectiveness in causing nickel hydride formation: S > As > Sb > Ge. It was suggested that NiAs type compounds could take part in the nickel hydride formation.