The distribution network for natural gas in Baden-Württemberg is generally capable of transporting hydrogen. This is one of the conclusions reached by the natural gas network operator Netze BW following a pilot project in the town of Öhringen in north-eastern Baden-Württemberg. There, Netze BW fed up to 30 percent hydrogen into the natural gas network in a real network operation.
It’s important to be careful here as in Canada, oil companies are using natural gas mixed with hydrogen gas to greenwash their carbon-emitting products.
Natural gas leakage is a significant and poorly measured issue on its own. Hydrogen distribution will exacerbate these problems and fossil fuel companies will use it to try to push more gas connections to people rather than renewables.