The East Württemberg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) has voiced strong support for constructing a hydrogen pipeline in the region, citing high anticipated demand.
However, the specifics of this demand and the justification for the pipeline remain unclear. The long-distance network operators’ application for the pipeline, referred to as the SEL pipeline from Esslingen to Bissingen, lacks a designated network operator, raising concerns among stakeholders, including the IHK.
The IHK claims that East Württemberg will need around 215,000 tons of hydrogen annually by 2030, a figure extrapolated from limited survey responses. This projection would represent 7-9% of Germany’s total hydrogen demand, according to the National Hydrogen Strategy. However, these numbers are being questioned due to the low response rate and the discrepancy with the broader national context.
Economists argue that hydrogen is not a cost-effective solution for most medium-sized companies in the region. The high production costs and associated losses make hydrogen impractical for long-term use compared to reliable power supplies. While heavy industries such as fertilizer, steel, cement, and paper production can benefit from hydrogen, the actual demand in East Württemberg seems overestimated.
Two significant industrial players in the region, Schwenk Zement and Palm Paper, are involved in sectors that could utilize hydrogen. However, their combined demand does not justify the projected 215,000 tons per year. This discrepancy highlights the need for a more detailed and realistic assessment of regional hydrogen needs.
The methodology behind the projected hydrogen demand in East Württemberg lacks transparency and rigorous validation. The reliance on limited survey responses and subsequent extrapolation by a consulting firm raises questions about the accuracy of the projections. A more robust and comprehensive analysis is essential to align regional estimates with national strategies and actual industrial requirements.
