Hydrogen pipeline Zomergem-Zelzate

Why is this infrastructure needed?

Companies based in the Ghent port area plan to make increasing use of hydrogen as a fuel and feedstock in order to systematically reduce their CO₂ emissions. Fluxys is therefore preparing to lay a cluster of pipelines in the Ghent port area that will allow companies that produce hydrogen to supply those wishing to use it in their processes.

For this project, we are working closely with companies in the port and with North Sea Port, whose hydrogen strategy aims to develop the cross-border port area into a hydrogen hub for Europe in order to support the sustainability of industry.

Pipeline network for the Ghent port area

In the Ghent region, Fluxys is preparing to build a hydrogen pipeline and a CO₂ pipeline between Zomergem and the Ghent port area. The project is part of our two-pronged, nationwide approach to help drastically reduce CO₂ emissions:

1. As Belgium's hydrogen network operator, we provide the infrastructure to transport hydrogen from production sites to the companies that use it as low-carbon energy or feedstock.
2. At the same time, we build infrastructure to remove CO₂. This is important because, for many companies, capturing CO₂ is the only way to make their operations climate-neutral and so maintain local production and jobs.

The hydrogen pipeline between Zomergem and the Ghent port area is an important step in the implementation of the federal hydrogen strategy and the Flemish hydrogen vision. Moreover, our CO₂ pipeline is fully in keeping with the Flemish decree on conveying CO₂ in pipelines.

The pipelines will only be laid once all the relevant permits have been obtained.

Some facts and figures:

• The pipeline will run through Lievegem, Kaprijke, Assenede, Evergem and Zelzate.
• Length: approx. 21 km
• Diameter: 900 mm

Consultation

Landowners and operators have their own point of contact at Fluxys Belgium, from the preliminary study of the project to the restoration of their land following the construction of the line. This allows them to consult with someone who is familiar with their concerns and the features of their land from the outset.

Permit procedures