Netze BW successfully tests 30% hydrogen blending in gas grid

German grid operator Netze BW, a subsidiary of utility EnBW Energie Baden-Wuerttemberg AG (ETR:EBK), has successfully carried out a test to inject up to 30% hydrogen in the natural gas network in real operation, demonstrating the infrastructure is fundamentally capable of transporting the eco-friendly fuel.

As part of the experiment, a locally limited area was separated from the existing natural gas network, forming an island within the grid, Netze BW said on Wednesday. The island area, located in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg in south-western Germany, included a property used by Netze BW as well as 26 adjacent households.

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The 30% hydrogen blending worked seamlessly, the results showed. No extensive adjustments to the existing infrastructure were necessary.

According to Netze BW, the pipelines are largely suitable even for 100% hydrogen.

The use of hydrogen in Baden-Wuerttemberg, however, is mainly contingent on connecting the state to the core national hydrogen network. Which regions will be supplied via the national grid largely depends on the demand from industrial customers, the firm said.

Netze BW expects the gradual hydrogen transformation in Baden-Wuerttemberg to begin in 2032. Hydrogen transportation via the existing gas grid is estimated to begin in 2040, the firm said.