German and Dutch gas network operators Thyssengas and Gasunie have agreed to explore building cross-border hydrogen pipelines between the two countries.

Under a joint development agreement, the pair intend to convert existing natural gas pipelines to carry hydrogen between the Netherlands and Germany at Oude Statenzijl in Groningen and Vlieghuis in Drenthe.

The pipelines could connect Dutch industrial areas, import terminals, storage, and production facilities with German industrial clusters in the Ruhr region and chemical facilities in Rhineland.

The agreement defines technical standards and organisational responsibilities, laying the groundwork for future hydrogen interconnections across northwest Europe.

“The agreement reached enables transport not only via our infrastructure between the Netherlands and Germany, but also to and from Denmark,” said Gasunie Director of Hydrogen Transport, Helmie Botter.