The Netherlands – Gasunie has decided to make a large investment in the creation of the initial phase of its national hydrogen network. From 2030 on, this network, which is expected to cost roughly €1.5 billion, would link important industrial areas in the Netherlands and surrounding nations like Germany and Belgium.
The infrastructure will make use of current natural gas pipelines, and Rotterdam will serve as a crucial entry point for the transfer of hydrogen to northwest Europe. This article will go into great length regarding the project’s objectives, technology, potential effects, and difficulties.
The 1,200-kilometer-long national hydrogen network will primarily make use of already-existing natural gas pipelines to transmit hydrogen to industrial users throughout the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. Rotterdam will be crucial in facilitating the distribution of hydrogen to northwest Europe as a significant harbor. The first part of the network will stretch approximately 30 kilometers from Tweede Maasvlakte to Pernis and is anticipated to be operational by 2025.
Gasunie’s investment
An important turning point in the growth of the hydrogen supply chain has been reached with Gasunie’s investment choice for the national hydrogen network. The organization seeks to contribute to the sustainability and security of the energy supply in the Netherlands and northwest Europe in partnership with partners like the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Shell Nederland, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Gasunie plays a crucial role in assisting the energy transition and satisfying the rising demand for clean energy alternatives by offering a complete hydrogen infrastructure.
Sustainable and energy independent
In order for the European Union to be sustainable and energy independent, hydrogen is an essential component. The Netherlands is well-positioned to play a significant role in distributing hydrogen to industrial end-users across international borders because to its well-connected infrastructure. The effort by Gasunie supports international cooperation in the realization of a greener and more autonomous energy landscape and is in line with the European hydrogen policy. The corporation is actively involved in infrastructure development for hydrogen in Germany and the North Sea in addition to the national network.
Use of natural gas pipelines
Gasunie’s use of the current natural gas pipelines has favorable financial and environmental effects. These pipelines will be used in about 85% of the network, saving 75% in construction costs over installing new infrastructure. This strategy minimizes the environmental impact of building new pipes while simultaneously lowering project costs. Gasunie shows how developing hydrogen infrastructure may be done sustainably and profitably by reusing existing assets.
