German gas TSOs map out plan for core hydrogen network

Germany's gas transmission system operators (TSOs) have published the plan for the development of a nationwide core hydrogen network by 2032.

The presented route options span around 11,200 km (6,959 miles) and include 309 projects with a total capacity of 101 GW for hydrogen input.

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In addition to this, imports through ship terminals, where hydrogen in alternative forms is converted into gas, contribute to the network. The core grid can provide 87 GW of power output for hydrogen supply.

The current planning status of the hydrogen core network is still subject to further refinement and optimisation as the unveiled route options will be evaluated and improved based on feedback from potential hydrogen network operators.

The final design is expected to be smaller than the initial proposal.

The core hydrogen network will connect clusters of demand such as large industrial centres, storage facilities, production plants and import corridors. It will include important hydrogen infrastructure, which is scheduled to be operational by 2032.

Hydrogen network operators and operators of other pipeline infrastructures have until July 28 to submit comments on the plan or report further hydrogen infrastructures for the hydrogen core network with FNB Gas, the association of supra-regional gas transmission companies in Germany.

Input from federal states, associations and other stakeholders can be filed with Germany's economy ministry.

The core network will form the basic infrastructure which will be further expanded in stages. In the second stage, which is already being prepared, a comprehensive hydrogen network will be planned as part of an integrated network development plan for natural gas and hydrogen for the years 2025-2037.