High hopes for hydrogen

Sweco chosen to conduct a feasibility study and preliminary research into several hydrogen routes over 70km of pipeline in Ghent and Antwerp – as infrastructure company Fluxys Belgium prepares its network for transporting hydrogen and CO2. 

Large volumes of hydrogen are important for enabling climate and energy transition. The ports of Ghent and Antwerp will play leading roles as European hubs.

“Transporting hydrogen and green molecules is essential in redesigning Europe’s energy system. As an engineering partner, we are happy to contribute to a sustainable and climate positive society,” says Erwin Malcorps, Business Area President Sweco Belgium.

The complete study assignment covers about 70 km of pipelines. Sweco’s assignment also includes design, environment impact assessment and safety coordination.

The Belgian government has committed to support the development of at least 150 km of hydrogen and CO2 transportation pipelines in Belgium and is providing financial support through various funds, such as the Energy Transition Fund, to the project.

Sweco’s assignment started in October 2022 and will end in January 2024. The first hydrogen and/or CO2 grid connections are planned to be commissioned in 2026.