The EU Commission has approved 3 billion euros ($3.2 billion) in state aid to support Germany's Hydrogen Core Network (HCN), a major hydrogen pipeline project. The HCN aims to create a long-distance hydrogen transport system that aligns with the EU's Hydrogen Strategy and 'Fit for 55' package to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative involves repurposing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport and building new infrastructure supported by the state aid to reduce financial burdens. The project will be overseen by hydrogen transmission system operators selected by Germany's federal network agency, with the goal of having the network operational by 2025 and fully completed by 2032. Additionally, state-controlled firm Sefe is investing 500 million euros to convert gas facilities for hydrogen use and has secured a significant hydrogen supply agreement with Equinor, ensuring a steady supply of low-carbon hydrogen from 2029 to 2060.