Final research plan for Hydrogen Network Western Netherlands expected by the end of this year

What was included in the draft research plan?

The draft research plan is officially called the Draft Scope and Detail Memorandum (draft NRD). This document outlines the potential routes for the new hydrogen pipeline that we intend to investigate. It also describes which topics will be assessed and the level of detail involved. These topics include nature, soil, water, noise, traffic and safety.

For the section of the project where new pipelines are planned, two route alternatives have been identified: one via Barendrecht and one via Blaaksedijk. We refer to these as route alternatives. At two locations, route variants have also been identified. These are locations where there are two possible options, but where the differences between the routes are relatively small. In addition to the new pipelines, an existing natural gas pipeline between Spaarndam and Zuidbroek will be repurposed and made suitable for hydrogen transport.

Seventy responses received

We received 70 responses to the draft research plan, as well as seven identical responses. Several of these included proposals for an additional route variant or for adjustments to one of the potential routes.

Over the past few months, we have reviewed all responses and worked on our formal response to them. We are also investigating whether the proposed adjustments are technically feasible and whether they can be included in the next phase of the studies.

Juanne Rours, Regional Manager for Hydrogen Network Western Netherlands, said: 'The responses contain valuable knowledge about the area and the potential routes. Some proposals require additional investigation. We are taking the necessary time to do this, so that we can carefully determine which routes and variants should be examined in the next phase.'
 

Careful assessment and incorporation of feedback

This autumn, we will discuss the potential adjustments with the municipalities, provinces and other public authorities involved. The final research plan will then be adopted.

The final plan will set out which routes and variants will be investigated further and which studies will be carried out. We expect to publish this plan before the end of 2026. At the same time, we will publish the response report, containing our responses to all submissions, as well as the participation report, which explains how local residents and other stakeholders have been involved in the project.

What happens next?

Following publication of the final research plan, work will begin on the studies required for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the Comprehensive Effects Analysis (IEA).

As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment, we will examine the potential effects of the route options on the surrounding area. In the Comprehensive Effects Analysis, the routes will also be compared on other factors, including technical feasibility, costs, the surrounding area and opportunities for future use.

The findings will help inform the selection of a preferred route for the new hydrogen pipeline at a later stage.

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