The draft project decision is getting closer: where do we stand now in Drenthe and Overijssel?
We are currently working on an important next step for Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel. Recently, surveys have been carried out along the preferred route, and we have held discussions with landowners, public authorities and representatives from the local area. The applications for the permits we need have been submitted, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy is preparing the draft project decision. It describes what the hydrogen network will look like, where the pipeline will be laid and which surveys have been carried out. It also explains how the local area and the natural environment have been taken into account. The draft project decision, together with the draft permits, is expected to be published for public inspection in October 2026. The documents will then be available for anyone to review and comment on.
This will mark the start of a new phase for the project. Meanwhile, we are preparing for the next steps towards the construction of the hydrogen network.
What has happened recently?
Over the past few months, we have continued to work on the development of Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel with local authorities, landowners, residents and other stakeholders. By carrying out surveys and holding discussions with local communities, we have gained an increasingly clear understanding of the route, the technical details and the effects on the surrounding area.
We have also been able to finalise many agreements with landowners. In Drenthe, virtually all Right of Use Agreements (ZROs) have now been signed. Together, we have reached agreements on the construction of the pipeline, the temporary use of the working strip, future access for operations and maintenance, and the associated compensation. This allows us to continue preparing for construction of the hydrogen network.
What we are working on now
Preparing the draft project decision and permits
We are currently analysing the results of the various studies carried out along the route, which examined factors such as soil, water, nature, archaeology and safety. Taken together, the findings from these studies form an important foundation for the draft project decision and the permit applications.
At the same time, we are continuing to work on the technical design of the hydrogen network. This will ensure that it is built in a way that is safe, reliable and future-proof.
Collaborating with public authorities
In late June and early July, we held meetings with civil servants and administrators from municipalities, provinces, water boards and other relevant public authorities. During these meetings, we discussed the progress of the project and shared information about the surveys for phase 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the preparation of the draft project decision, and the permit applications. We also discussed issues that are important to the local community, including safety for people and their environment, water management, valuable buildings and landscapes (cultural and historical heritage), and the project’s implications for future developments in the area.
In addition, public authorities raised questions, highlighted points for consideration and contributed local knowledge. These exchanges help us to further develop the project and ensure that interests, regulations and local knowledge are properly taken into account when preparing the decisions.
Engaging with the local community
Working sessions with village interest groups and recognised consultation partners
A project like Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel affects many people in the local area, which is why we believe it is important to maintain an open dialogue with residents and local organisations.
Recently, we organised various working sessions with village interest groups and Recognised Consultation Partners (EOPs). During these meetings, we outlined the progress of the project and discussed issues of concern to the local community, including the route of the hydrogen network, the surveys for the EIA, external safety, the project schedule and the preparation of the draft project decision.
There was also an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and raise points for consideration. These discussions have helped us gain a better understanding of what matters to residents and local organisations. We will incorporate these findings as much as possible into the further development of the project and our communication with the local community.
Themed session on external safety
We also organised a themed session on external safety. During this session, experts explained the safety aspects of hydrogen transport and the surveys being carried out for this purpose. Topics covered included safe distances around pipelines, fire-attention areas (locations where a fire could be particularly dangerous, perhaps because many people live or work there, or because there are flammable substances or natural habitats nearby), the differences between natural gas and hydrogen pipelines, and how these factors are taken into account in the EIA.
There was also plenty of time for questions and discussions. Participants talked with us about the safety of existing and new pipelines, the possible implications for future developments in the area, and the measures being taken to mitigate risks. The findings from these discussions have been incorporated into the further development of the project and the coordination with public authorities and other stakeholders.
What will happen after the summer?
After the summer, we will focus on the next important step: the public inspection of the draft project decision and the draft permits.
Over a six-week period, the public will be able to review the plans and provide feedback. In November, we will also organise several meetings where visitors can find out more about the project, the surveys and the next steps.
We will continue to keep everyone informed about the progress of Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel via our website and newsletters.
Working on the future energy system
With Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel, which is part of a national hydrogen network, we are preparing for a future in which hydrogen will play a greater role in our energy supply. Where possible, we will use existing pipelines, and where necessary, we will lay new ones. In the near future, we will continue to prepare for construction of the hydrogen network. This will involve ongoing dialogue with landowners, residents, public authorities and other stakeholders.
Read all the information about Hydrogen Network Drenthe Overijssel.
Read more about the procedure and review all published documents on the website of the Dutch national government (Rijksoverheid, in Dutch).
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