DVGW has published a new brochure "Hydrogen Supply at the Local Level - the role of hydrogen in a future climate-neutral energy system". Based on latest facts and figures, the brochure demonstrates the need for new gases, like hydrogen, for industry, buildings, transportation and power generation in the future, and the vital role of the local distribution networks in achieving this endeavour.
DVGW is the scientific and technical association that promotes the gas and water industry in Germany and represents all (around 800) Distribution System Operators (DSOs).
Key takeaways from the brochure include:
- Today’s German natural gas network can be hydrogen-ready by 2045, based on the premise that almost all (>97%) of today’s German natural gas distribution network is already suitable for hydrogen.
- As 80% of Germany’s primary energy consumption is based on fossil energy, there is a clear need for hydrogen to be part of meeting the clean energy demand in 2045.
- Apart from offering long-term and seasonal storage capacity to help offset the volatile energy generation from wind and solar, the gas infrastructure can transmit eight times as much climate-neutral energy as an electricity grid.
- As only up to 20% of the installed power capacity is located close to the German Core Hydrogen Network (Wasserstoff-Kernnetz), the distribution network will be key in reaching end-users like small and medium-sized companies.
- Process heat in industry accounts for more than 10% of today’s German final energy demand and will remain heavily dependant on gas.
- Residential heating will require a systemic and holistic approach, integrating all potentially climate-neutral energy sources including hydrogen. 75% of buildings are currently heated by gas and oil; a 100% electricity scenario is unfeasible.
The brochure also includes examples of practical hydrogen applications in Germany, like the H2Direckt project operated by Ready4H2 member Thüga.
Link to brochure here.
