The Hydrogen Core Network is the planned high-pressure pipeline infrastructure for transporting hydrogen in Germany. It is intended to enable the cost-effective and widespread use of hydrogen, thereby laying the foundation for a hydrogen economy in Germany.
The core network comprises 9,040 kilometers of hydrogen pipelines, which are scheduled to be built by 2032. It connects hydrogen production facilities, coastal import terminals, storage facilities, and large industrial consumers, and is expected to transport approximately 278 TWh of hydrogen. About 60 percent of the network is to be created by retrofitting existing natural gas pipelines, and approximately 40 percent through new construction.
In addition to 15 transmission system operators, 10 distribution system operators are involved in planning, construction, and operation. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWK) coordinates the process and establishes the legal framework.
The costs are estimated at approximately 18.9 billion euros. Funding will come from a combination of user grid fees, government subsidies, and the grid operators' own funds. The Bundestag has yet to decide on the exact breakdown.
Timeline
The core network is to be built out in phases.
- In November 2023, the BMWK and FNB e.V. presented a concrete proposal for the core network.
- On July 22, 2024, FNB Gas e.V. submitted the joint application from the transmission system operators for the hydrogen core network to the Federal Network Agency.
- On October 22, 2024, the Federal Network Agency approved the construction of the nationwide hydrogen core network.
- In late November 2024, KfW announced that it would provide 24 billion euros for the core network.
- Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025.
- The first sections are scheduled to open in 2027 or 2028. The entire network is scheduled to be completed in 2032.
Part of the European Hydrogen Backbone
In the long term, the core network is to be integrated into the European Hydrogen Backbone (EHB). This is in line with the German federal government’s National Hydrogen Strategy. Along the hydrogen import corridors, cooperation with the respective neighboring countries will be established and strengthened.
Another goal is to establish closer cooperation with interested EU member states in the medium term. This is intended to facilitate a coordinated market ramp-up, establish common standards, streamline coordination, and enable coordinated imports.
More about the core network BMWK FAQ on the Core Network "Back"
