WS2 – Hydrogen transmission infrastructure

Workstream 2 is dedicated to building an initial hydrogen transport infrastructure across Europe. It combines the construction of new dedicated hydrogen pipelines with the repurposing of existing natural gas infrastructure. Together, these efforts will create a cross-border transmission network, ensuring reliable, large-scale delivery of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen to industrial hubs and consumers. With contributions from multiple Member States, WS2 plays a central role in enabling the European Hydrogen Backbone and accelerating the energy transition. The activities considered in WS2 are expected to contribute towards the following overarching objectives:

  • Build over 1,000 km of new hydrogen pipelines to establish a robust transport network
  • Repurpose existing natural gas pipelines (around 1,600 km) for hydrogen use, leveraging existing infrastructure
  • Facilitate cross-border connections and interoperability across EU Member States
  • Support the creation of an open-access hydrogen market by ensuring transparent and standardised pipeline operation
  • Provide the foundation for Europe’s Hydrogen Backbone, linking producers, storages, and off-takers

 

Under WS2 the following projects are taking place: