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UK and Germany Explore Pipeline-Based Hydrogen Trade Through Joint Feasibility Study

The UK and Germany have completed a joint feasibility study to enable future hydrogen trade via pipelines. The study covers technical, regulatory, commercial, and infrastructure aspects needed for the project. The UK targets net zero emissions by 2050, while Germany aims to achieve net zero by 2045 and plans to import up to 70% of its hydrogen needs by 2030.

The UK has over 250 hydrogen projects in development, totaling 25.1 GW capacity by 2030. Funding schemes like the Net Zero Hydrogen Fund and Hydrogen Allocation Rounds support these developments, while a UK hydrogen certification scheme is underway.

The study assessed four pipeline routes, including offshore and land connections via Belgium, the Netherlands, and directly to Germany. Repurposing existing gas pipelines was considered but faces technical and contractual challenges. A direct UK-Germany connection would require a 900 km pipeline capable of carrying 500–600 kilotonnes of hydrogen annually.

Key enablers identified include aligning hydrogen standards between both countries, building a business model for pipeline use, and coordinating domestic hydrogen networks. From 2026, NESO will lead strategic hydrogen network planning in the UK.

This collaboration highlights strong progress toward establishing a large-scale green hydrogen economy between two major European players.