Donckse Velden requires a customised solution for new hydrogen pipeline

‘This section of the route is quite complex,’ Juanne says. ‘Within a few hundred metres, this area combines the Nieuwe Maas waterway, the dyke, two drinking water extraction areas, a recreation area, a country estate and the Rotterdamseweg road.’

Normally, Hynetwork follows the existing pipeline corridor as closely as possible, in this case between Slikkerveer and Huys ten Donck. These corridors are intended for pipelines of national importance that transport hazardous substances, such as the pipeline for Hydrogen Network Western Netherlands.

‘But here, the surroundings require a customised approach,’ Juanne continues. ‘The pipeline corridor runs through a water extraction area. This makes construction difficult, because of course we cannot jeopardise the drinking water supply. Combined with the other issues in the area, this means we need to carefully consider the best way to cross the area between the Nieuwe Maas and the Reijerpark recreation area.’

Study area between Bolnes and Slikkerveer

The study area, which is also part of the research plan, provides scope to investigate route alternatives that deviate from the existing pipeline corridor. These deviations could help to:

• protect drinking water in the water extraction areas
• make junctions with busy roads safer
• and consider the impact on recreational activities and the landscape.

‘Small changes can make a big difference here,’ Juanne explains.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Preliminary analyses suggest that there are possible solutions within the study area. Potential route alternatives will be investigated further in the near future. Juanne: ‘The results will be incorporated into the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which describes the effects on the surrounding area.’

Based on the results of the study, the route that scores highest in terms of the environment, engineering, the local area, costs and long-term viability will be selected. The final decision will be made by the State Secretary for Climate Policy and Green Growth and the Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning (VRO).

Working together, one step at a time

‘We are carrying out this process very carefully,’ Juanne emphasises. ‘At this stage, we are still open to route suggestions from the local community, including within this study area. Ultimately, we want to lay the pipeline where the route is technically feasible and fit for the future, and where it can count on as much local support as possible.’

Tip: view the routes on the area map

The Hynetwork area map for the Western Netherlands shows the possible routes and facilities for the future hydrogen pipeline. You can also leave comments, questions or ideas here.