The state government of Baden-Württemberg has approved the further development of the Baden-Württemberg hydrogen roadmap, which includes the establishment of the first pipeline connections to the German and European hydrogen network by 2030.
The roadmap, which focuses on infrastructure and future hydrogen needs, aims to secure the country’s hydrogen supply by 2030 at the latest. The approval of the roadmap’s progress report comes after around 500 million euros in funding became effective in the state as a result of hydrogen-related projects.
According to Energy Minister Thekla Walker of the Bündnis 90/Die Grünen party, the first pipeline connections to the German and European hydrogen network in Baden-Württemberg could occur by 2030, with a possible connection as early as 2028 in the Freiburg im Breisgau area. To obtain reliable figures, the ministry has started a new hydrogen requirement analysis. The demand for hydrogen is expected to be significantly higher in 2030 than previously assumed, making reliable figures essential for infrastructure development and conversion.
Baden-Württemberg Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann, also a member of the Bündnis 90/Die Grünen party, believes that hydrogen is necessary in areas where switching to electrical energy is not possible. Kretschmann stated that “hydrogen is a central building block for the energy transition and climate protection. The supply of green hydrogen and the connection to a national and European hydrogen network are extremely important for phasing out fossil fuels and the competitiveness of our industrialized country.”
Hydrogen is considered a promising energy source due to its potential as a clean fuel that produces only water when burned. The use of hydrogen can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Hydrogen can be produced using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
The establishment of the first pipeline connections to the German and European hydrogen network in Baden-Württemberg will help to ensure the country’s supply of hydrogen and support the transition to a more sustainable energy system. However, challenges remain, including the high cost of producing and transporting hydrogen and the need for significant infrastructure investments. The successful implementation of the Baden-Württemberg hydrogen roadmap will require continued government support and collaboration with industry and research institutions.
