Netherlands Opens First 32-Kilometer Hydrogen Pipeline Segment

The Netherlands has completed the first segment of its national hydrogen network, a 32-kilometer pipeline connecting Maasvlakte to Pernis, an industrial refining hub. The pipeline was formally opened at an event attended by King Willem-Alexander and climate minister Stientje van Veldhoven, with Gasunie serving as the operator.

Commercial hydrogen flow is scheduled to begin in late 2024 when Shell brings its hydrogen production facility online. Shell will initially consume the hydrogen internally for oil refining operations, with other industrial users expected to connect at a later date.

The full national hydrogen backbone is planned to expand to approximately 1,200 kilometers, leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure where possible. The network is designed primarily for industrial decarbonization and is expected to eventually connect with Germany's hydrogen network.

However, the Dutch Court of Audit has raised concerns about the project's long-term viability, citing a "chicken-and-egg" problem: infrastructure development requires industrial demand, while industrial investment depends on existing infrastructure. The Court estimates that 2.5 billion euros in loss compensation may be needed to sustain the network—more than three times the current government subsidy budget allocation.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Central. Read the full article →