Gasunie, an energy infrastructure company, has made a significant investment decision to develop the first part of its national hydrogen network.
This network, costing around €1.5 billion, aims to connect major industrial regions in the Netherlands and neighboring countries such as Germany and Belgium from 2030 onwards. The infrastructure will utilize existing natural gas pipelines, with Rotterdam acting as a key gateway for hydrogen transportation to northwest Europe. The project’s goals, technology, potential impact, and challenges will be explored in detail in this article.
Creating a Sustainable and Interconnected Network
The nationwide hydrogen network, spanning 1,200 kilometers, will primarily repurpose existing natural gas pipelines, enabling the seamless transportation of hydrogen to industrial customers across the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. Rotterdam, as a strategic seaport, will play a vital role in facilitating the distribution of hydrogen to northwest Europe. The initial section of the network, running from Tweede Maasvlakte to Pernis, will cover a distance of over 30 kilometers and is expected to be operational by 2025.
Gasunie’s investment decision for the national hydrogen network marks a significant milestone in the development of the hydrogen supply chain. The company, in collaboration with partners such as the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Shell Nederland, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, aims to contribute to the sustainability and security of energy supply in the Netherlands and northwestern Europe. By providing a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure, Gasunie plays a pivotal role in supporting the energy transition and meeting the increasing demand for clean energy alternatives.
Advancing European Energy Independence
Hydrogen plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability and energy independence within the European Union. The Netherlands, with its well-connected infrastructure, is positioned to play a key role in supplying hydrogen to industrial end-users across borders. Gasunie’s initiative aligns with the European hydrogen strategy and fosters international collaboration in realizing a greener and more independent energy landscape. The company’s involvement extends beyond the national network, as Gasunie is also contributing to hydrogen infrastructure development in Germany and the North Sea.
Gasunie’s utilization of existing natural gas pipelines provides environmental benefits and cost advantages. Approximately 85% of the network will repurpose these pipelines, resulting in a 75% cost reduction compared to building new infrastructure. This approach not only reduces project expenses but also minimizes the environmental impact of constructing new pipelines. By repurposing existing assets, Gasunie demonstrates a sustainable and economically viable approach to hydrogen infrastructure development.
Gasunie’s investment in the national hydrogen network signifies a major stride towards a sustainable energy future. By leveraging existing natural gas pipelines and establishing connections to seaports, domestic hydrogen production, and storage facilities, the network will facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source. The project’s ambitious goals, innovative technology, and potential impact on European energy independence make it a crucial milestone in the transition towards a greener future.
