H2ercules

Infrastructure plays a key role in the development of the hydrogen economy and the successful implementation of the energy transition. In the field of hydrogen, it is therefore important to build a hydrogen pipeline network that links hydrogen production sites in northern Germany with industrial centers. To accelerate this significant process, OGE and RWE have developed the "H2ercules" infrastructure project to connect consumers in the south and west with domestic hydrogen production in the north. Not only 1,500 kilometers of pipeline are planned for this, but also up to 1 gigawatt of electrolysis capacity. 

A large part of the German natural gas network can be used for the development of the future hydrogen network, as this is already well developed. Converting these natural gas pipelines to hydrogen not only represents the most cost-effective solution, but also enables a rapid approach. However, the existing gas network is to be supplemented by new construction because, according to the project partners, a structural realignment of the gas infrastructure is required. Instead of flowing from east to west and south, the gas, or hydrogen, must in future flow from the generation sites in Lower Saxony to the consumption centers in the west and south. To achieve this goal, gaps must therefore be closed and new sources connected to the existing pipeline network.

The project will be implemented in two stages: in 2028, the network from west to north - i.e. from the Ruhr region to Wilhelmshaven - is to be completed, before the network to the south is finalized in 2030. By implementing the network in this timely manner, the project partners aim to secure the supply of hydrogen to industry as quickly as possible. This is intended to break through the well-known chicken-and-egg problem, as the switch to hydrogen will be made much easier for industry thanks to existing infrastructure. The division of tasks between the project partners is clearly defined: OGE will build the required pipelines or convert them to hydrogen, and RWE will build an electrolysis capacity of up to 1 gigawatt and also import green hydrogen.

The planned pipeline network. © H2ercules

In addition to the electrolysis capacity and the construction and conversion of the pipelines, gas-fired power plants with at least 2 gigawatts and corresponding storage facilities are also to be converted to hydrogen as part of the "H2ercules" project. Existing gas-fired power plants and gas storage facilities on the Dutch border will be converted or connected to the future hydrogen pipeline system. This will create additional backup capacity to secure future energy supplies.

The project is also intended to contribute to the development of the European hydrogen market. This is because, as part of H2ercules, Germany will be connected to major import routes, whether via pipelines from Belgium and the Netherlands or from Norway.

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