Germany Moves Forward with €18.9 Billion Hydrogen Core Pipeline Network Approval
Key Ideas
- The German federal network agency approves the hydrogen core network consisting of 9040 km of pipelines, 60% being converted natural gas pipelines and 40% newly built, with a total investment of €18.9 billion.
- The approval marks the first step in establishing a nationwide hydrogen infrastructure, connecting future hydrogen clusters and neighbouring countries.
- Gas transmission system operators conducted market surveys to identify pipelines for conversion, with the Federal Government deciding on the hydrogen core network in 2023.
- Future development will align with gas and hydrogen network planning processes, adapting plans to meet challenges and integrating with electricity scenarios.
The German federal network agency, Bundesnetzagentur, has given the green light to the hydrogen core network proposed by gas transmission system operators. This network, totaling 9040 km in length, is set to be operational gradually by 2032. Approximately 60% of the pipelines will involve the conversion of existing natural gas pipelines to carry hydrogen, while the remaining 40% will be newly constructed. The anticipated investment for this project is €18.9 billion. President Klaus Müller expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort in establishing this network over the past few years. The hydrogen core network is a significant milestone in building a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure in Germany, facilitating connections between hydrogen clusters and neighbouring countries. The approval followed detailed market surveys and consultations, leading to the identification of pipelines suitable for hydrogen transport. The Federal Government's decision to establish the hydrogen core network in 2023 underscored the importance of binding commitments from producers and consumers. Beyond this, future development will align with the ongoing gas and hydrogen network planning processes, ensuring adaptability to forthcoming challenges. The operators will continue refining their plans in accordance with the gas/hydrogen scenario framework confirmed by the Bundesnetzagentur.