Green light for European hydrogen corridor "SouthH2"
Green light for European hydrogen corridor "SouthH2"
The energy ministries of Italy, Austria and Germany have signed a joint letter expressing their support for the development of a "southern hydrogen corridor" in the European Union. This was announced by the Italian transmission system operator Snam. Now the countries want to apply for PCI status for the project.
Cross-border cooperation among gas grid operators
The Italian Snam, the Austrian Trans Austria Gasleitung (TAG) and Gas Connect Austria (GCA) as well as bayernets in Germany want to jointly develop the SoutH2 Corridor. This is a hydrogen-capable pipeline corridor connecting North Africa with Central Europe. The pipeline network will transport green hydrogen produced in the southern Mediterranean to European consumers.
The transport network operators involved welcome the political support for their initiative from governments.
Hydrogen from North Africa for European industry
The Southern Hydrogen Corridor (also called "SoutH2 Corridor") is to be part of the European Hydrogen Backbone with a length of 3,300 km.
With its development, the participating companies and governments want to ensure hydrogen supply security. It is crucial for the creation of an interconnected and diversified hydrogen backbone in Europe.
Furthermore, with a hydrogen import capacity from North Africa of more than 4 million tonnes per year, the corridor could meet 40% of the REPowerEU import target.