Preferred route for hydrogen network in Southwest Netherlands announced
State Secretary for Climate and Green Growth Jo-Annes de Bat has established the overall route for the hydrogen network in the Southwest Netherlands. This marks the next step in the development of the national hydrogen backbone. In broad outline, the route of the connection in Zeeland and West Brabant has been clarified. The network is part of the national and international hydrogen system and is intended to connect ports and industrial clusters in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
The route runs from the border points with Zelzate and Antwerp via Woensdrecht to Moerdijk, with an additional connection from Woensdrecht to the Port of Vlissingen. The design prioritizes the smartest possible use of existing infrastructure. Between Zelzate and Moerdijk, an existing natural gas pipeline is being converted for hydrogen transport. A new hydrogen pipeline will be constructed between Woensdrecht and Vlissingen, which will be bundled with existing cables and pipelines where possible.
Importance for our industrial cluster
For the North Sea Port region, this is an important development. With this route, the hydrogen network towards Vlissingen, Terneuzen, Moerdijk, and the Belgian border is taking further shape. This expands the foundation for a cross-border network that connects ports and industry and, in the long term, also connects to Germany via the Delta Rhine Corridor. This is relevant for a region where industry, logistics, and energy infrastructure are closely intertwined. Access to a hydrogen network is a key prerequisite for companies looking to become more sustainable and for the further development of the region as an energy and industrial cluster.
Investigation and next steps
The choice of route was preceded by extensive research, with attention to the living environment, safety, future-proofing, and costs. This involved, among other things, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA Phase 1), a comprehensive impact analysis, and advice from regional authorities. Responses from the local community were also taken into account.
The next step is the further elaboration of the route and additional research in EIA Phase 2. A preparatory decision to reserve space for the future pipelines is expected to be taken at the end of 2026. The draft project decision and the permits are expected to be available for public inspection at the end of 2027.
