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[BUSINESS] · Germany · 4 sources

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Lausitz hydrogen network route redesign under discussion

Discussions are underway to redesign the route of Germany's hydrogen core network in the Lausitz region. Instead of the planned 'Lausitz-Banane' route—which would run from Berlin through Rüdersdorf and Eisenhüttenstadt to Boxberg—a shorter and more economical alternative is being considered.

This proposed route would pass through Lauchhammer and the Schwarze Pumpe Industrial Park, potentially utilizing existing gas pipeline corridors. Roland Peine, Technical Managing Director of the Schwarze Pumpe Industrial Park, suggests this could simplify approval processes and allow for commissioning within three years.

The shift in planning follows changes in regional industrial demand. ArcelorMittal has abandoned plans for a hydrogen-based steel plant in Eisenhüttenstadt, and Leag has canceled a planned H2-ready power plant in Jänschwalde. Conversely, the Schwarze Pumpe area remains a viable hub, with projects from Leag and Enertrag ready to utilize a hydrogen connection.

Any redesign requires approval from the Federal Network Agency. While the agency's 2024 approval does not preclude future changes based on demand, the current schedule for the region's connection to the hydrogen core network is no earlier than 2034.

Entities

ArcelorMittal · Brandenburg Ministry of Economic Affairs · Federal Network Agency · Lausitz · Schwarze Pumpe Industrial Park

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