The approval of the hydrogen core network by the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) is an important building block for the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy and the hydrogen market in Germany. This important step is the result of successful cooperation between politics, public administration and transmission system operators.
The German National Hydrogen Council (Nationaler Wassenstoffrat) had been an early and continuous advocate of the creation of a hydrogen core network in Germany. Katherina Reiche, Chairperson of the National Hydrogen Council, said:
“The approval of the hydrogen core network by the Federal Network Agency is a strong signal for the energy transition and shows that we are on the right track. Germany is thereby setting an important example for the resolute development of the hydrogen infrastructure in Europe. With this, we have reached an important milestone: As a result, we can become a European pioneer for an efficient hydrogen infrastructure. But now it is time to take the next steps and quickly create the other necessary framework conditions for the ramp-up of hydrogen.”
This newly approved core network will enable the cost-effective transport of large quantities of hydrogen over long distances, connecting the points of import, production sites as well as end users. It will make a significant contribution to the decarbonisation of the economy and represents an indispensable building block for a sustainable and secure energy supply in Germany.
With the approval of the hydrogen core network, Germany is becoming a pioneer in Europe in the development of an efficient hydrogen infrastructure, which must be complemented by a clear political framework and incentives to enable and encourage investment in hydrogen technologies across the entire value chain. This includes both the rapid expansion of other important infrastructure elements, such as distribution networks, storage and import terminals, and targeted support for investments in hydrogen supply and hydrogen applications.
The National Hydrogen Council will continue to actively support this process and advocate the rapid implementation of the next steps for the hydrogen ramp-up. The goal remains clear: Germany is to become a global pioneer and driving force in the field of hydrogen and successfully shape the energy transition.