The first segment of the pipeline, extending nearly 400 kilometers from Lubmin on the Baltic Sea to Bobbau in Saxony-Anhalt, is among the projects slated for early completion.

The project, backed by substantial private sector investment with state support, is crucial for Germany’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions in energy-intensive industries like steel production.

In October, the Federal Network Agency granted approval for the so-called hydrogen core network. By 2032, it should expand to 9,040 kilometers, linking key hydrogen hubs in every state: seaports, production zones, and industrial clusters. The total outlay of around 19 billion euros [$20 billion USD] must be financed privately, aided by fee restrictions at the state level.