Netherlands opens first 32-kilometer hydrogen pipeline from Maasvlakte to Pernis

The Netherlands on Wednesday marked the completion of the first section of its national hydrogen network, a 32-kilometer pipeline linking Maasvlakte with Pernis, a key industrial and refining center. The project is being developed and operated by Gasunie, the company responsible for the Dutch hydrogen infrastructure. The opening was celebrated at the Schiecentrale in the presence of King Willem-Alexander, Climate Minister Stientje van Veldhoven, and Gasunie CEO Willemien Terpstra.

Although the pipeline is now complete, commercial hydrogen transport is not expected to begin until later this year, when Shell starts operating its hydrogen production facility. Initially, the hydrogen will be used for Shell’s own refining operations, with additional industrial users joining the network over time.

The hydrogen backbone is ultimately planned to span approximately 1,200 kilometers, largely through the conversion of existing natural gas pipelines. Designed mainly to help industrial users reduce carbon emissions, the network is also expected to establish future connections with Germany.

Van Veldhoven described the development as a “historic milestone,” stating that it places the Netherlands at the center of Europe’s emerging clean energy system.

Despite this progress, questions remain about the project’s long-term economic viability. In December, the Dutch Court of Audit warned that significant portions of the planned network might never be completed because of a classic “chicken-and-egg” dilemma: infrastructure investment depends on industrial demand, while industries are hesitant to invest without the infrastructure already in place.

To address potential financial shortfalls, the Dutch government plans to subsidize Gasunie after the network is built. However, the Court of Audit argued that the proposed support is insufficient, estimating that loss compensation could reach €2.5 billion—more than triple the amount currently budgeted.