Die Opportunitätskosten des deutschen Wasserstoff-Backbones* - CleanTechnica

The article discusses the significant opportunity costs associated with Germany's hydrogen backbone pipeline infrastructure, which currently spans about 400 kilometers and is operational but lacks connected suppliers or committed customers. This situation reflects a broader European assumption that building hydrogen infrastructure ahead of demand would stimulate that demand. However, the core issue is not hydrogen availability but the capital tied up in assets that do not deliver usable energy outcomes. The article highlights the mismatch between the extensive planned hydrogen infrastructure and realistically expected demand, emphasizing that the pipeline, effectively a "pipeline from nowhere to nowhere," is not yet serving paying customers. Converting existing high-pressure natural gas pipelines to hydrogen service is complex and costly, involving detailed assessments for hydrogen embrittlement, weld quality, and material compatibility. Often, internal polymer linings are needed to limit hydrogen permeation and leaks, increasing material and installation costs. Components such as valves, seals, compressors, and measurement systems require replacement or significant modification to handle hydrogen's distinct properties, leading to substantial additional investment and operational expenses