North Sea Canal Area Hydrogen Network: Plans and Research Findings Now Available for Review

From a small team to detailed plans

'When I joined the project in 2022, it was still at a very early stage,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'We had a small project team and no detailed project plan yet. We first investigated whether and how a hydrogen network could be developed in the North Sea Canal Area. From there, we gradually explored what would be needed, where the pipeline could be located and which parties we needed to engage with.'

The plans have now been developed in considerable detail.

'We now know where the pipeline is planned, how we intend to construct it in different locations and what the potential effects on the surrounding area may be,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'After years of working together, many different elements are now coming together. That makes this a particularly meaningful milestone for me.'

View the construction methods in the project’s interactive area map.
 

What documents are now available?

From 18 September to 29 October, three types of documents will be available for review: the draft project decision, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and various draft permits.

The draft project decision explains where and how the hydrogen network will be constructed. It also sets out the considerations that have been made and the measures that will be taken to minimise the impact on the surrounding area as much as possible.

The Environmental Impact Assessment describes what the construction and use of the hydrogen network could mean for the local area. Studies have been carried out on subjects including nature, noise, vibration, traffic, soil, water and safety. The draft permits are preliminary versions of the permits required to construct the network.

'For the first time, people can clearly see what these plans could mean for their local area,' explains Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'During the first phase, we examined different route options and their possible effects. A preferred route was then selected. In Phase 2 of the EIA, that route has been developed further and assessed in greater detail.'
 

Most effects are temporary

An important conclusion from the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is that most effects will occur during the construction phase. These may include noise from machinery, construction traffic, temporary traffic management measures, and impacts on nature and green spaces. Once the pipeline is underground and operational, the impact on the surrounding area is expected to be limited.

‘During construction, people may notice work taking place along the route of the hydrogen pipeline,’ says Zhen Zhen. ‘At some locations, temporary construction areas will be needed and some vegetation may need to be removed. Temporary traffic management measures may also be required. We continuously look for ways to minimise these impacts. Once construction is complete, the pipeline will be underground. Just like the existing natural gas network, hydrogen will be transported safely below ground.’

The EIA not only identifies potential effects. It also describes the measures that can be taken to reduce them. For example, in some locations, trenchless drilling techniques can be used to pass underneath roads, waterways or green areas. Construction activities can also be carefully planned to limit disruption. Where vegetation needs to be removed, we will work together with residents and other stakeholders to determine how it can be restored or compensated for.

Safety from the design stage onwards

Safety is a key consideration throughout the studies and in discussions with the local area. During the design phase, assessments were carried out to identify potential risks associated with the hydrogen network and to determine which measures would be required. The regional safety authorities have also been closely involved.

'Hydrogen is less familiar to many people than natural gas, so we understand why questions about safety are often raised,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'We use pipelines and materials that are suitable for hydrogen and we follow strict safety standards.'

Monitoring, inspections and maintenance will remain important throughout both the construction and operational phases of the network.

Existing natural gas pipelines are thoroughly assessed before they are repurposed for hydrogen transport. During construction, strict safety procedures and supervision will be in place. Once the pipelines are operational, they will be inspected and maintained regularly.
 

Developing this design together with the local area

According to Zhen Zhen Zheng, people and organisations in the region have made an important contribution to the plans that are now available. Residents, businesses, authorities and other organisations shared their knowledge of the area and highlighted local considerations for the project team.

'The North Sea Canal Area is a busy and complex region,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'There are many cables and pipelines, as well as homes, businesses, roads, nature areas and green spaces. The interests of different parties do not always align. Determining the route was therefore a complex puzzle.'

Knowledge and feedback from the local area have helped shape the route of the hydrogen pipeline, among other things. In addition, special attention will be given to restoring green spaces, with residents and other stakeholders actively involved in that process. 

'I am proud of what we have achieved together with the local area,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'We have been working closely with some people and organisations for several years. Through regular conversations, we have built strong relationships and a great deal of mutual trust. Together, we have looked for solutions. As a result, I now know the region and many of the stakeholders extremely well.'

As the project moves into its next phase, Nancy Willems is joining the team as Regional Manager. Together, Zhen Zhen Zheng and Nancy Willems will continue engagement with the local area throughout the next stages of the project.
 

View the plans and submit your response

From Friday 18 September until Thursday 29 October 2026, everyone can review the documents and submit a formal response to the plans.

The documents and information on how to submit a response can be found at: www.energietransitie.nl/waterstofnetwerk-noordzeekanaalgebied.

Join one of our information meetings

'The documents are extensive and can be quite technical,' says Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'During the information meetings, our colleagues will explain the plans in a clear and accessible way. We would also like to hear whether people have any questions, concerns or local insights that we may not yet be aware of. That local knowledge remains extremely valuable.'

To support this, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy and Hynetwork are organising two public information meetings. You can view maps and project information and speak with project team members and technical specialists. Registration is not required. You are welcome to attend at any time between 7.00 p.m. and 9.00 p.m.
 

Monday 28 September, 7.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.
FC Velsenoord Canteen
Rooswijkerlaan 2
1951 HH Velsen-Noord

Wednesday 30 September, 7.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.
Ruigoord Church
Ruigoord 76
1047 HH Amsterdam

Stay involved

After 29 October, all responses will be reviewed and answered. The feedback received will be taken into account during the preparation of the final project decision.

'We have benefited greatly from the knowledge and involvement of people throughout the region over the past few years,' concludes Zhen Zhen Zheng. 'That involvement will remain just as important during the next phase. I therefore invite everyone to review the plans, ask questions and share any comments or points of attention with us.'
 

More information and interactive area map

• More information about the project and the route is available at www.hynetwork.nl/en/region/projects/north-sea-canal-area.
• Information about reviewing the plans and submitting a formal response is available at: www.energietransitie.nl/waterstofnetwerk-noordzeekanaalgebied.