32km hydrogen pipeline completed at the Port of Rotterdam

Dutch gas company Gasunie has completed construction of the first section of the national hydrogen network: a 32-kilometre stretch in the Port of Rotterdam connecting an industrial zone with planned electrolyzers that will produce green hydrogen. The next steps will be testing and preparations for commissioning, which is expected to take place in April 2026.

Construction of the first section of the Dutch hydrogen backbone began in April 2024, following several years of preparation. Once completed in 2033, the network is expected to be 1,200 kilometres long and make the Port of Rotterdam a major entry point for hydrogen imports into Europe, with connections to the German and Belgian hydrogen networks also planned.

"The route through the Port of Rotterdam had to make its way through a dense network of roads, railways, waterways and hundreds of existing pipes and cables. Where it crossed roads or railways, the route sometimes had to pass beneath 20 or more pipes and cables, which had to remain in operation during construction. This was a complex task that required careful coordination with the owners of these pipes and cables, obtaining all the necessary permits and approvals, and meticulous preparation of the work,"said Hynetwork, a Gasunie subsidiary responsible for building the Dutch hydrogen backbone.

The completed 32-kilometre hydrogen pipeline will have four connection points at each end, which can be used by both hydrogen suppliers and customers. Six additional branch connections will also be provided along the route, allowing other parties to connect in the future.

Shell is expected to become the first user of the new hydrogen pipeline, with its 200MW Holland Hydrogen I electrolyzer under development in the area. It is scheduled to begin operation in the second half of 2026. The hydrogen produced is expected to be used at Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rotterdam.