King Willem-Alexander and Minister Stientje van Veldhoven have inaugurated the first 32-kilometer segment of the Netherlands' national hydrogen pipeline network in the Port of Rotterdam, marking a major milestone in Europe's transition to clean energy.

The construction of the national hydrogen network commenced in October 2023. With the completion of this first route, hydrogen can now be transported from production locations on the Maasvlakte to industry. Over the coming years, the network will be further expanded to major industrial regions across the Netherlands and connected to storage locations and networks in Germany and Belgium.

The launch of Rotterdam’s initial pipeline segment marks a major advancement in industrial sustainability without compromising market competitiveness. Operating as a vital European energy hub, the Port of Rotterdam connects directly to the Delta Rhine Corridor, enabling efficient hydrogen and CO2 transport between the Netherlands and Germany. This network serves as a foundational element for a unified European energy architecture. By combining hydrogen, CO2, natural gas, thermal heat, and wind power, this integrated system will reinforce economic resilience and strategic independence across Northwestern Europe.

The national hydrogen network will eventually extend over approximately 1,200 kilometres, largely using existing natural gas pipelines. The network therefore forms an essential precondition for the development of a well-functioning hydrogen market and for improving the sustainability of industry. The first hydrogen plant has now also been connected to the network. Additional production and import locations, as well as industrial clients are expected to be connected to the Rotterdam network in the coming years.