German gas distributor says network is ready for 30% hydrogen blend following successful pilot scheme

Netze BW, a major network operator in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, conducted successful tests involving 26 homes, confirming that their grid can handle hydrogen blends up to 30%. The project, called Hydrogen Island Öhringen, gradually increased the hydrogen content in the gas grid until reaching a blend of 30% hydrogen and 70% natural gas. According to Martin Konermann, Netze BW’s managing director for technology, the addition of 30% hydrogen went smoothly without requiring any significant adjustments to the existing infrastructure or for consumers using gas boilers and stoves.

However, a recent report by the Environmental Coalition on Standards highlighted concerns about using hydrogen blends in household appliances. It found that a 20% hydrogen blend led to more leaks from gas cookers and increased emissions from gas boilers. Despite this, Netze BW believes their pipelines are largely suitable for 100% hydrogen, but this would only be feasible if connected to Germany’s planned national hydrogen network.

Looking ahead, Netze BW sees renewable hydrogen as part of future heating plans, alongside heat pumps and heating networks. They anticipate the gradual transition to hydrogen starting in Baden-Württemberg around 2032. However, some studies caution against relying solely on hydrogen for heating, citing its high cost and inefficiency.

Even Baden-Württemberg's home energy advisory body has expressed skepticism about using hydrogen for heating, deeming it too scarce, expensive, and inefficient. Despite these challenges, Netze BW remains optimistic about integrating hydrogen into their network, emphasizing its potential role in the future of heating alongside other technologies.