Plans for the Hydrogen Network in Limburg Presented to the Public
On Friday, 23 January 2026, the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth, together with Hynetwork, announced the plans for the hydrogen network in Limburg. This was done through the publication of the Statement of Intent and Proposal for Participation. We would like to present these plans to the local community and other stakeholders.
Alexander Bloembergen, Environmental Manager for the Hydrogen Network Limburg project, explains what the plans involve and how everyone can take part and share their ideas.
Why is a hydrogen network being developed?
“At present, industry in the Netherlands is responsible for around 25% of CO2 emissions. By using hydrogen as a feedstock and fuel, emissions from industry can be reduced. This is essential to limit further global warming and to meet our climate targets.
The hydrogen network in Limburg is part of the national network that Hynetwork is developing on behalf of the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth for the transport of hydrogen. This network will connect the five major industrial regions in the Netherlands with each other, with neighbouring countries and with hydrogen storage facilities.”
What is planned in Limburg?
“In Limburg, we plan to develop a hydrogen pipeline that will become part of the national hydrogen network. Our intention is to convert an existing natural gas pipeline between Ravenstein and Schinnen for future hydrogen transport. Between Melick and Hommelhof, we expect to construct a new pipeline. We are also investigating two possible routes for a new pipeline to Chemelot: via Einighausen (north) or via Sanderbout (south). In this way, Limburg will be connected to the national network. From there, the network will later connect to cross-border links with Germany and Belgium.”
What will local residents notice during construction?
“Our plans combine pipeline conversion and new construction. Wherever possible, we convert existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen use. This is more sustainable, as it requires less material and limits the impact on the surrounding area.
For sections where new construction is necessary, we carefully consider the route. Wherever possible, we follow the PEH corridor (the area designated by the national government for pipelines) or bundle routes with existing infrastructure to limit new crossings through the landscape.
We also assess which existing valve stations* need to be adapted or replaced, and where new valve stations are required. This prepares the network for future regional connections for companies that may switch to hydrogen at a later stage.
All construction activities are temporary, and we aim to minimise any disruption. We also make sure to inform local residents well in advance about our activities. Once the pipelines are in operation, hydrogen transport will not be noticeable—just as with natural gas. Moreover, hydrogen can be transported just as safely as natural gas.”
* Valve stations are small, fenced installations containing controllable valves that regulate the flow of hydrogen and gas. The valves themselves are underground; the operating mechanisms are above ground and visible as vertical pipes with handwheels.
How can the public contribute ideas?
“The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth and Hynetwork believe it is important that everyone has the opportunity to share ideas and contribute. For example, people can provide input on the possible pipeline routes or suggest alternatives, on the expansion of valve stations, and on how participation is organised.
This project requires permits from government authorities. To manage this process effectively, the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth coordinates the decision-making. That is why this project follows a formal procedure, known as the Project Procedure. Through the steps of this procedure, we involve stakeholders as carefully and transparently as possible in reaching a final decision."
The first step in the Project Procedure is the publication of the Statement of Intent and Proposal for Participation. This document is available for public consultation from Friday, 23 January until Thursday, 5 March 2026, and anyone can submit a response to the plans.
Information events
“To inform local residents and other interested parties about the plans, how we will keep the community informed, and how people can contribute and respond, we are organising one online information session and three walk-in information evenings. During these sessions, we will explain how participation works and how feedback can be submitted.”
Online information session
The online session will take place on Tuesday, 3 February, from 7:30 to 8:30 pm.
Registration is available via the website of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). After registering, you will receive a link by email to join the webinar.
Walk-in information evenings
The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth and Hynetwork are organising three walk-in information evenings. Short presentations will be given at 7:15 pm and 8:15 pm. Registration is not required. You are welcome to drop in at any time between 7:00 and 9:00 pm at the following locations:
- Thursday 5 February – Maasheseweg 80a, Room Zeven, Venray
- Monday 23 February – Jan Willenstraat 1, Hubertushuis De Boew, Geleen
- Tuesday 24 February – Schaapsweg 24, Roerparel, Sint Odiliënberg
Where can you go for more information or questions?
As Environmental Manager, I am available to answer your questions. You can reach me via the contact form at the bottom of the project page on the Hynetwork website, where my contact details are also listed. I will also be present at the walk-in information evenings—perhaps I’ll see you there.
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