Hungary Assesses Hydrogen Transportation Using Existing Gas Network

In Hungary, natural gas network operator FGSZ has selected DNV to explore the suitability of transporting hydrogen and hydrogen blends via its grid network.

DNV will assess FGSZ’s DN600 pipeline and valve stations for hydrogen transportation under various scenarios.

The development comes as Europe is embarking on various measures to grow the hydrogen economy, despite being hindered by a lack of infrastructure.

According to DNV’s latest report, Rising to the Challenge of a Hydrogen Economy, the use of existing natural gas infrastructure has been identified as a potential solution to addressing the lack of infrastructure.

Some 78% of industry stakeholders surveyed by DNV state that re-purposing of existing gas infrastructure will help kick-start the hydrogen economy.

Re-purposing the existing gas network for hydrogen would help Hungary to accelerate the decarbonisation of energy and industry and will comply with European Green Deal climate laws.

FGSZ’s pipeline is 5,874km long, has been in operation for the past 70 years and when filled up to full pressure can cover Hungary’s gas demand for one day in the coldest winter.