Gas grid operators in Germany devise plan for green hydrogen grid

Transmission system operators (TSOs) in Germany have gathered around a concept plan for the establishment of a grid that could start transporting green hydrogen by 2030.

The so-called H2 Startnetz idea was presented last week by Germany’s gas transmission grid operator umbrella organisation FNB Gas. The proposal calls for a network spanning 1,200 km (746 miles), using up to 1,100 km of repurposed natural gas pipelines and just 100 km of new piepliens.

The overall investment will stand at around EUR 660 million (USD 713.7m).

The initial grid will primarily serve to connect key demand areas in the states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony with projects for the production of green hydrogen in the North of the country. Sector players have drawn a map for the network’s route based on 31 specific green gas projects reported to FNB Gas.

"This would create a completely new energy network in Germany on the basis of the existing natural gas network, giving industries such as steel or chemicals the opportunity to become climate neutral," said FNB Gas’ managing director Inga Posch, adding the plan can be realised at a "justifiable cost". According to the organisation, the plan has a pivotal role in supporting Germany to achieve its 2050 climate goals and remove coal from its energy system but its realisation would require certain changes to the legal framework.

(EUR 1.0 = USD 1.081)

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