Germany has received approval from the European Commission for a EUR 3 billion scheme to support the construction of the Hydrogen Core Network (HCN), aimed at enabling the creation of hydrogen transmission infrastructure necessary for the use of renewable hydrogen in industry and transport by 2030. The project will involve repurposing existing gas pipelines, building new ones, and installing compressor stations. The aid will be in the form of state guarantees, allowing hydrogen transmission system operators to secure more favorable loans to cover initial losses in the ramp-up phase. Tariffs for the network are set to be lower initially to encourage utilization. The funding for the HCN will be provided by Germany's KfW Development Bank at below-market rates, with repayment scheduled until 2055. The first pipeline is expected to be operational by 2025, with the entire network set to be completed by 2032. This investment aligns with the EU's objectives outlined in the EU Hydrogen Strategy and the Fit-for-55 package, aiming to promote clean hydrogen production and usage. The initiative also complements the IPCEI framework, specifically the IPCEI Hy2Infra, approved earlier. Overall, the project signifies a significant step towards advancing hydrogen infrastructure and transitioning towards cleaner energy sources.