In a major step forward for the energy transition, Federal Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten has named Fluxys Hydrogen as the Hydrogen Network Operator (HNO) for Belgium.

Source: Fluxys

Fluxys Hydrogen, a subsidiary of Fluxys Belgium, will be responsible for developing and managing a hydrogen transmission grid, as mandated by the Federal Hydrogen Act of 11 July 2023. This appointment attests to the company's expertise in gas transport and its commitment to creating infrastructure that supports hydrogen transportation, a key factor in meeting climate goals.

According to the federal hydrogen strategy, Fluxys Hydrogen will develop a pipeline network as part of the "European Hydrogen Backbone", facilitating the transport of low-carbon energy for Belgium and its neighbours. The company has already begun consultations and preparatory studies and plans to construct the network gradually, repurposing existing pipelines wherever possible.

Initial plans include laying pipelines in industrial clusters with a high demand for hydrogen, using support from the Relance and Recovery Funds. "Fluxys Hydrogen's initial aim is to provide maximum support to industry to achieve decarbonisation," said Pascal De Buck, CEO of Fluxys. He expressed pride and delight at being entrusted with the role of Hydrogen Network Operator for the next 20 years.

Fluxys Hydrogen, the hydrogen network operator in Belgium, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fluxys Belgium. It aims to provide customers with the capacity to transport 30 TWh of hydrogen a year by 2030, playing a crucial role in the energy mix for a carbon-neutral future in Belgium and north-western Europe.