How does Hydrogen Network Netherlands work?

Hydrogen Network Netherlands transports hydrogen to industry through a nationwide network. This network is largely based on the existing natural gas network which, with some changes, can be made suitable for transporting hydrogen. Only part of the existing natural gas network will be converted for use in the hydrogen network. This is possible because the demand for methane (natural gas) is decreasing. Working this way lets us ensure a reliable supply of methane while we develop a new hydrogen network.

Hydrogen transport similar to that of natural gas

Broadly speaking, the transport of hydrogen is quite similar to that of natural gas. As with natural gas, there are producers and customers, and the gas flows from high pressure to low pressure. A key difference is that hydrogen is a smaller molecule. That makes hydrogen more volatile than natural gas. Hynetwork considers this when developing the hydrogen network. Examples include adjusting or replacing valves, flanges, some measuring and control equipment, compressors, and schemes that are part of the current natural gas network.

Watch the video

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy has commissioned Hynetwork to design, develop, and commission Hydrogen Network Netherlands. Watch the video on the Hynetwork website for a detailed explanation of how the network functions: