Dutch Government Accelerates Hydrogen Network Construction Through Permit Changes
Key Ideas
  • The Dutch government is delegating permit responsibilities to speed up hydrogen network construction, facilitated by Hynetwork under Gasunie.
  • The 1,200-kilometer hydrogen pipeline network will repurpose existing gas pipelines to connect industrial regions, storage facilities, and other countries.
  • By designating the hydrogen network as a project of national importance, the government aims to streamline the permit process for environmental aspects.
  • Hydrogen, used as a raw material and fuel, is seen as a crucial element in reducing CO2 emissions from the industry, contributing to climate goals.
The Dutch government is taking steps to accelerate the development of the hydrogen network by introducing changes in the permit process. Hynetwork, a subsidiary of Gasunie, is spearheading the construction of a 1,200-kilometer hydrogen pipeline network, leveraging existing gas pipelines. The aim is to interconnect industrial regions, storage facilities, and even international locations to bolster the hydrogen infrastructure. By proposing amendments to the Environmental Decree, the government seeks to elevate the hydrogen network to a project of national significance, mirroring the approach taken for natural gas and high-voltage networks. This shift in permit responsibilities to the State Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature is anticipated to expedite the network's expansion by aligning it with other key national projects. The initiative holds promise not only for infrastructural advancement but also for environmental conservation, as hydrogen, when utilized as a raw material and fuel, is poised to play a pivotal role in curbing CO2 emissions from the industrial sector. This strategic focus underscores the Dutch government's commitment to combatting climate change and fostering sustainable practices within the industry.
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