How could future H₂ infrastructure for hydrogen transport be designed?

Transporting and distributing large quantities of energy to end users requires robust and reliable infrastructure. For hydrogen, several transport options are available. These include repurposing existing natural gas pipelines, constructing dedicated hydrogen pipelines, and transporting compressed or liquefied hydrogen as well as organic hydrogen carriers by ship, truck or rail.

The most suitable option depends on factors such as transport distance, volumes and the intended application. Each pathway has specific technical, economic and infrastructure-related advantages and limitations. Companies, infrastructure operators and policymakers therefore need to compare the available options systematically and assess them in the context of the wider energy system.

Our services around H₂ infrastructures

LBST supports clients in evaluating hydrogen infrastructure options through detailed technology and cost comparisons. Our analyses cover, among other aspects:

  • repurposing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport,
  • developing dedicated hydrogen pipeline networks,
  • transporting compressed or liquefied hydrogen,
  • using organic hydrogen carriers,
  • transporting hydrogen by ship, truck and rail,
  • comparing the technical and economic conditions of different transport pathways,
  • assessing the development of hydrogen and gas infrastructure in Europe.

Our systems analysis combines technical detail with economic, infrastructure-related and policy perspectives. This provides a sound basis for investment decisions, infrastructure planning and the development of future hydrogen supply systems.

Contact person

Christopher Kutz

Christopher Kutz

  • Senior Project Manager / Consultant

Selected projects

2024 - 2025

Study on H2 Quality Standardisation for European H2 Infrastructure

In collaboration with DBI Gut, DNV and Trinomics, LBST has conducted a study for the European Commission (Directorate General for Energy, DG ENER) to support future standardisation of hydrogen quality in the European hydrogen network.

Study_Gas-Infrastructure

2024 - 2025

Gas infrastructure development in the Baltic Energy Market

In this study, LBST, together with Trinomics and Artelys, examined the future use of renewable and low-carbon gases in the Baltic Sea Region. The analyses cover, among others, the status quo as well as the projected development up to 2050 for hydrogen and biomethane.

2024 - 2025

Investment needs of European energy infrastructure

For the EU Commission (DG ENER), LBST, in partnership with Trinomics and Artelys, has identified the investment needs for a fully decarbonized energy system in Europe. Major investments in H2 pipeline infrastructure are needed especially by 2030, in addition to the expansion of transmission grids.