With a symbolic groundbreaking ceremony in Hoogstede (Lower Saxony), transmission system operator Thyssengas officially launched the construction of one of the first hydrogen pipelines between Germany and the Netherlands. The 53-kilometer connection is being created by converting an existing natural gas pipeline and is scheduled for completion by 2027. It will link the German hydrogen core network with the Dutch import ports of Amsterdam, Eemshaven, and Rotterdam.
The project, called Vlieghuis–Ochtrup, is considered a pioneering measure and marks the transition to the implementation phase, as the Dortmund-based company announced on August 28. It is based on the approval of the hydrogen core network by the Federal Network Agency in October 2024. The aim is to reliably supply industrial companies and power plants in the Münsterland region with hydrogen in the future.
“As a transmission system operator, we have a responsibility to help shape the future transport infrastructure for hydrogen,” explained Thyssengas Managing Director Dr. Thomas Becker at the groundbreaking ceremony. “We bring hydrogen to where it is needed—to industry, power plants, and distribution system operators.”
According to the company, the existing natural gas pipeline will be completely converted to hydrogen operation. Special attention is being paid to multi-stage safety procedures and continuous monitoring. Environmental and nature conservation measures during the construction phase also play a central role.
Member of the Bundestag Albert Stegemann emphasized the regional significance: “The connection to the hydrogen core network opens up great opportunities for our region: We have an ideal location, the necessary infrastructure, and companies that will benefit.”
Thyssengas currently operates a gas network of around 4,400 kilometers in North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony. The company employs around 550 people at seven locations. At the end of July, the network operator presented further plans for hydrogen pipelines in the Rhineland.
