GASCADE is making energy history with the initial hydrogen filling of the first section within its Flow program, marking the beginning of the transformation of Germany's energy infrastructure. On March 13, 2025, GASCADE Gastransport GmbH announced the commencement of this historic initiative, which aims to repurpose approximately 400 kilometers of existing natural gas pipeline to transport hydrogen by the end of 2025.
The Flow project, which covers 1,630 kilometers, is set to be a central part of Germany's hydrogen core network. This unique initiative not only showcases the technological prowess of GASCADE but also emphasizes the nation's commitment to fostering the hydrogen economy. "With this conversion, GASCADE is not only demonstrating its technological expertise and innovative know-how but also sending a strong signal for the hydrogen economy," said Christoph von dem Bussche, GASCADE's Managing Director.
The pipeline system, initially constructed for natural gas, boasts a diameter of 1.4 meters. Its conversion will create what can be described as the north-south highway for hydrogen transportation throughout Germany. Once fully operational, GASCADE's hydrogen pipeline is anticipated to have the capacity to transport up to 20 gigawatts (GW) of energy, facilitating the transfer of hydrogen produced both offshore and onshore, particularly from Northern Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to Southern Germany.
Previously, GASCADE scored significant strategic momentum when Germany's SEFE secured a 200,000-tonne annual green hydrogen offtake deal with Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power, positioning GASCADE to integrate international hydrogen supplies seamlessly. The anticipation surrounding the hydrogen core network (HCN) is palpable, with approvals from the Federal Network Agency (BNetZA) allowing plans for the 9,040-kilometer HCN to advance.
The HCN aims to create substantial capacities, facilitating the feed-in of up to 101 GW of hydrogen and feeding out approximately 87 GW. This ambitious project is expected to interlink key import terminals to industrial hubs across the country, altering Germany's energy framework and contributing significantly to its hydrogen production and import strategy.
The excited message was conveyed by Robert Habeck, Germany's Vice-Chancellor and Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, as he addressed the prospect of security for all stakeholders involved, "We are creating security for everyone involved – from hydrogen producers at home and abroad to the operators of power plants and storage facilities and future industrial users." This statement reflects the optimism surrounding the HCN and its projected impacts.
Fully operational hydrogen pipelines will support not only domestic energy requirements but also cater to international demand, as Germany looks to establish itself as a leader in hydrogen technology and exports. The endeavor is enabled by EU regulations, including the Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Markets Decarbonisation Package, which covers transmission, storage, and distribution, and is fostering economic growth through innovation and improved infrastructure.
By initiating the filling of these pipelines, GASCADE isn’t just achieving technical success; they are making strides toward reducing CO2 emissions and promoting renewable energy sources. "Our vision is to create a sustainable and climate-friendly energy future. With the Flow program, we are setting new standards and effectively taking the necessary steps to realize this vision," says Dirk Flandrich, Flow program manager.
GASCADE is fully aware of the monumental task at hand, and the leadership team has expressed deep gratitude to the colleagues involved for their dedication. The Flow program is indicative of the larger national commitment, promising innovative pathways toward energy transition. It is envisioned as not merely the conversion of physical pipelines but as establishing the groundwork for an entirely new energy supply paradigm.
With these developments, GASCADE’s Flow program stands at the forefront of the hydrogen revolution, possibly redefining how energy is transported across Germany and beyond, reflecting its aspirations of becoming a notable player on the global hydrogen stage.
From the initial hydrogen fill-up, GASCADE sends out a clear message: the future is not just green but also collaborative, secure, and innovative, laying out the path toward achieving climate neutrality and energy sovereignty.