General – Network Operator
The Dutch Gasunie is the intended network operator for the future hydrogen network in the North Sea.
This was announced two days ago by the Dutch Minister for Climate and Energy Policy in a letter to the Dutch House of Representatives. In his letter on the North Sea Energy Infrastructure Plan 2050, the minister stresses the importance of designating an intended operator to safeguard public interests.
Additionally, the designation reassures the market that infrastructure will be available. In light of the key role that offshore hydrogen production is expected to play in the future growth of offshore wind, the minister has asked Gasunie to set the wheels in motion towards creating a hydrogen network.
This hydrogen network will help achieve the climate goals and energy independence, and improve the Netherlands’ competitive position.
Gasunie CEO Willemien Terpstra: “We are pleased that the government has placed its trust in Gasunie and intends to assign Gasunie this vital role of offshore hydrogen network operator. We are ready, just like we are doing onshore with the national hydrogen network, to get to work to build a network in the North Sea, that will not only have good connections to our national network but also to our neighbouring countries. Needless to say, we will be looking into whether and, if so, how we can reuse the existing North Sea gas infrastructure.”
