H2ercules – the fast track for hydrogen in Germany
The H2ercules initiative aims to advance the development of a hydrogen economy in Germany. The associated transmission network is scheduled to be completed by 2032. To this end, OGE, RWE, and other partners are collaborating across the value chain to quickly supply consumers in southern and western Germany with hydrogen from the north.
In addition to hydrogen production, the project aims to tap into various import options. The H2ercules network is designed to connect electrolysers, as well as storage and import sites, with industrial customers. A large portion of the infrastructure will be created by converting existing natural gas pipelines.
Planned connections to the German core hydrogen network and the European hydrogen network are expected to open up additional supply routes. The continued use of suitable natural gas pipelines can reduce the cost of new construction and accelerate implementation. In this way, H2ercules can become a key link from the North Sea coast to southern Germany.
The H2ercules project is based on an initiative by the companies OGE and RWE. Since its launch, more than 30 partner companies have joined the initiative, all of which want to actively help shape the future of the hydrogen economy.