badenova builds hydrogen pipeline in Southern Germany

The Freiburg-based regional energy supplier is not only advancing its own infrastructure projects, but also making a concrete contribution to the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy in Germany – while simultaneously assuming responsibility for the energy future of its region.

Two key badenova projects – H2@Hochrhein and RHYn Interco – were already integrated into Germany's core hydrogen network in October 2024. The current start of construction marks the implementation of the first section of the planned hydrogen pipeline in the H2@Hochrhein project, which will involve the construction of a new, approximately 58 km pipeline between Grenzach-Wyhlen and Waldshut-Tiengen. The pipeline will primarily supply energy-intensive industries along the Hochrhein with green hydrogen. This hydrogen can be generated locally or fed into the grid from other regions. The entire project is scheduled to be commissioned by 2030.

As one of the few distribution network operators nationwide, badenovaNETZE is taking an active role in the development of the hydrogen core network – thus positioning itself on an equal footing with the long-distance network operators. This close integration of long-distance and distribution network infrastructure is considered crucial for the development of a functioning hydrogen market.

“The development of an efficient hydrogen infrastructure is a central element of the energy transition. The fact that we are among the first to implement this construction demonstrates that we are actively, concretely, and courageously shaping the transformation," said Dirk Sattur, CEO of badenova. “As a regionally rooted company, we see our contribution not only in the technical implementation, but also in supporting a sustainable, future-proof energy system – for the region and beyond.”

First section already laid

Construction work began in March 2025 with a route approximately 9 km long between the municipalities of Albbruck and Dogern. The first section, comprising approximately 350 m of pipeline, was laid at the end of April 2025. Cross-border connections are also planned for the future: a preliminary feasibility study jointly with Industrielle Werke Basel (IWB) is currently investigating possible Rhine crossings and grid connections to Switzerland.

Julie Bürkle-Weiss, Technical Director of badenovaNETZE, emphasised: “With the approval of the core network and the early start of construction, the hydrogen ramp-up in the southwest is gaining momentum much earlier than originally expected. This creates planning security for industry and municipalities and strengthens the long-term attractiveness of the Upper Rhine region.”

Working together for the ramp-up

The project's progress is also the result of close coordination with regional stakeholders. The Waldshut district, as well as the municipalities of Albbruck and Dogern in particular, actively supported the preparatory process. District Administrator Dr Martin Kistler emphasises the strategic importance: “It is a strong signal for our business location that construction of the nationwide hydrogen network is beginning in Baden-Württemberg on the Upper Rhine. This gives our energy-intensive companies a clear future perspective. We want to remain an industrial location. The construction also demonstrates that our cross-border efforts – together with the Lörrach district and partners along the Rhine in Germany, Switzerland, and France – have paid off.”

Key role for regional suppliers

badenova sees itself not only as a pipeline builder, but also as an active partner in the development of a functioning hydrogen market. As a regional energy supplier with many years of experience in the gas sector, the group contributes expertise, existing infrastructure, and a broad partner network to the transformation. In collaboration with industrial companies such as Evonik, RWE, and Bosch, badenova is involved in a joint hydrogen initiative on the Upper Rhine.

“The transformation will only succeed if we think of hydrogen as a holistic system – from production and transport to application,” explained Bürkle-Weiss. "Especially during the ramp-up phase, it is crucial to bundle regional projects and create marketable infrastructures.”

Actively shaping change

With the construction of the hydrogen network, badenova is implementing one of the largest investment steps in the company's history. The transformation of the existing gas networks is not only breaking new ground in technology, but also a key lever for a sustainable energy supply in the region.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalhydrogenreview.com/hydrogen/23052025/badenova-builds-hydrogen-pipeline-in-southern-germany/