What we heard during consultation

People asked questions, shared their views, and raised concerns or ideas. The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth and Hynetwork carefully reviewed and responded to all submissions. These responses have been compiled in the Response Memorandum, which was published alongside the Preferred Alternative. Everyone who submitted a response has been informed personally.

The feedback provided valuable insights. While it did not result in changes to the selected route, it will help shape the further development of the project and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA Phase 2). Below is an overview of the main topics raised and how we will address them in the next phase.
 

Support for the project and questions about the need for hydrogen

Several respondents asked questions about hydrogen, including the future availability of renewable hydrogen, its cost and whether a network of this scale is already needed.

In the Response Memorandum, we explain that we have considered a range of future scenarios. In all of these scenarios, a robust hydrogen network is needed to support the decarbonisation of industry.
 

Questions about the route of the pipeline

Many responses focused on the exact location of the pipeline. This is understandable, as the route passes through different areas and affects a range of interests.

The overall route has now been identified. An important principle underlying the project is to make use of existing infrastructure wherever possible. Between Zelzate and Moerdijk, an existing natural gas pipeline within the LSNed pipeline corridor will be repurposed for hydrogen transport. Between Woensdrecht and Vlissingen, a new hydrogen pipeline will be installed, following existing cable and pipeline routes wherever possible.

In some locations, however, combining infrastructure would create greater disruption or environmental impact. In those cases, alternative routing options have been selected to minimise the impact on the surrounding area.

During the next phase, the route will be developed in greater detail. This work will take into account the available space, existing underground infrastructure, technical requirements and future developments in the area.
 

Safety remains our highest priority

Questions about safety covered topics such as pipeline depth, distances from homes and sensitive locations, and the interaction with other installations in the area. Respondents also raised concerns about the combination of activities in the region and wider geopolitical developments.

Safety is our highest priority. When developing the design, we carefully assess existing conditions and comply with strict legal requirements and safety standards. In the next phase, the design will be worked out in greater detail. For example, we will determine the required separation distances between pipelines and assess whether additional measures are needed.

As part of EIA Phase 2, all relevant risks and interests will be assessed carefully and in an integrated manner.
 

Construction activities and their impact

People also asked what disruption they might experience during construction. The impact will vary from location to location and depends, among other things, on the construction method used.

We assess the most suitable approach for each location. In some cases, the pipeline will be installed using an open trench. In others, horizontal directional drilling will be used to install the pipeline underground with limited surface disruption. On our 'How We Install Pipelines' page, videos explain how these construction methods work in practice.

Before construction starts, we will engage with the local community and keep people informed about upcoming activities. Essential services such as gas and water supplies will remain available throughout the construction period.
 

Points raised by municipalities and infrastructure partners

Municipalities and infrastructure partners highlighted a number of specific points for consideration. These included efficient use of space, interactions with other underground infrastructure, the cumulative effects of risks in the area and future development plans. Respondents also emphasised the importance of good coordination between all parties involved.

We will take these points into account as the project progresses and will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders. In response to a question about a potential future connection, the map included in the Preferred Alternative now identifies a search area for a possible future connection. This location can also be viewed on the interactive project map.

Agricultural interests

Farmers and agricultural organisations raised concerns about possible impacts on soil quality, water management and crop production. We take these concerns seriously.

These considerations were already taken into account when identifying the preferred route and were assessed during the first phase of the environmental assessment process.

They will remain an important focus area during the next phase. We follow established guidelines for working on agricultural land and carefully assess potential impacts in advance. We also monitor conditions during and after construction so that any necessary adjustments can be made in a timely manner.

Where possible, we minimise impacts by selecting construction methods with less disturbance, such as horizontal directional drilling instead of open excavation. For example, see our video explaining how directional drilling works.

We also coordinate construction activities with farmers to accommodate seasonal activities and day-to-day operations. If damage does occur, it will be addressed in a careful and transparent manner.

Would you like to know more about how we assess soil conditions before work begins? Read our article on Special care for Zeeland's soil.
 

Advice from the Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment has provided advice for the next stage of the project. This includes recommendations to explain project choices more clearly and to provide more accessible information about the hydrogen value chain, safety and environmental considerations.

These recommendations will be incorporated into EIA Phase 2.

Thank you for your input

We would like to thank everyone who participated and shared their views. Your feedback helps us develop the project in a careful and well-informed way. 

We will continue to engage with residents, businesses and other stakeholders throughout the next phase of the project. Together, we are working together towards a hydrogen network that fits its surroundings and helps prepare the region for the future.