Hydrogen is considered a key technology for a climate-neutral future. In Aachen, we are also relying on this clean form of energy to make our economy fit for the future and contribute to the energy transition.
Green hydrogen is produced from renewable energies and helps to decarbonize industrial processes, mobility and heat supply. There is already a great demand for hydrogen in Aachen's industry - a reliable and economical supply is therefore crucial for the transformation of our region.
Our goals for Aachen:
- Development of a regional hydrogen network to supply companies with climate-friendly hydrogen
- Promotion of innovative hydrogen projects and targeted support for pioneers from industry and business
- Raising awareness of the opportunities and potential of hydrogen
Hydrogen network under construction
The expansion of the nationwide hydrogen core network H2ercules is picking up speed - and Aachen wants to benefit from it right from the start. The city is actively campaigning to be connected to the emerging national and European hydrogen network in order to secure the long-term supply of local industry and companies. The aim is an environmentally friendly and economically viable connection to the Europe-wide network.
Aachen is also building up local structures in parallel:
- Conversion of existing gas pipelines for the transportation of hydrogen
- New construction of electrolyzers
- Development of storage and filling station infrastructure for transport, trade and industry
In this way, a stable network for the supply of climate-neutral hydrogen is being created step by step.
Initiatives & Partners
Aachen is part of an active hydrogen region. Numerous players from business, science and politics are working together to drive the market ramp-up.
Important initiatives:
- Hydrogen Hub Aachen - a partnership between the city, region, IHK and companies to establish a hydrogen model region
- AachenPLUS (HyLand / HyExperts) - Funded by the federal government to develop an overall regional hydrogen strategy
- EMR H2 Booster and EMR H2 HUBs - Cross-border cooperation in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine with partners from Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium
Central partners in the region:
- RWTH Aachen University - Research & development on hydrogen technologies
- IHK Aachen - Network, advice and support for companies
- STAWAG & ASEAG - Pilot projects
- Regional companies such as Neuman & Esser, FEV Europe or the Weyer Group - technology, components and implementation
Together, these partners are creating the basis for a sustainable hydrogen economy in Aachen.
FAQ: Hydrogen in Aachen - Frequently asked questions
What is hydrogen?
Hydrogen (H) is the most common element in the universe - our sun consists largely of it.
It can be obtained by electrolysis, for example: This involves splitting water into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂). If this is done with electricity from renewable energies, green hydrogen is produced, which is climate-friendly.
Today, hydrogen is still mostly obtained from natural gas (steam reforming).Why is the city of Aachen interested in hydrogen?
Hydrogen can be used without CO₂ emissions and helps to replace fossil fuels.
According to forecasts, Aachen will need at least 550 GWh of hydrogen per year - primarily in industry, commerce and services.
Green hydrogen is currently the only climate-friendly alternative, especially for processes that cannot be electrified.Will hydrogen soon also be used for heating and electricity in apartments and houses?
No. Hydrogen is neither intended nor sensible for households. The direct use of renewable electricity, for example with heat pumps, district heating or photovoltaics, is much more efficient and cheaper.
Is hydrogen safe?
Yes. Pure hydrogen is non-toxic and poses similar risks to natural gas.
It has been used safely in industry for decades. In fuel cells, it is used without an open flame, which can make it even safer than conventional combustion.What are the future prospects for hydrogen as an energy source?
Hydrogen will become increasingly economical with the expansion of renewable energies.
It will play a key role in the future, particularly in industry, in heavy goods transport and as a storage medium for renewable energy.Is the expansion of the hydrogen infrastructure really sustainable?
Yes. Hydrogen is an important building block for the energy transition, especially where electricity is not an alternative.
It complements renewable energies such as wind and solar and closes supply gaps.What are the benefits of expanding the hydrogen infrastructure for citizens?
It reduces dependence on fossil fuels and supports climate targets.
It also strengthens the business location: New companies and jobs are being created in the hydrogen sector.Can existing gas pipelines be used for hydrogen?
Yes - after thorough testing and technical conversion.
56% of the planned German hydrogen core network will consist of converted existing gas pipelines.When will the construction of the hydrogen pipeline in the Aachen region begin?
Construction of the pipeline from the Eynatten border transfer point to the Weisweiler power plant is scheduled to start in mid-2026 and be completed by the end of 2028.
Why does the pipeline run all the way to the Weisweiler power plant?
A hydrogen-capable gas and steam power plant is being built there to close the energy gap following the legal decision to phase out coal (trial operation from 2028, regular operation from 2030).
What happens if the pipeline construction is delayed?
There is then a risk of delays in achieving climate neutrality, investments could fail to materialize and companies could suffer disadvantages.
How is environmental protection ensured during construction?
Environmental impact assessments are carried out in advance.
Construction is subject to strict conditions, and recultivation measures may be carried out after completion.How transparent is the planning?
All relevant information is made publicly available and planning is carried out with the involvement of the public. You can read the results of the previous spatial impact assessment to identify the preferred route here.
How is the public involved?
Through early information, participation processes, owners' meetings and dialog markets.
This allows citizens and affected agencies to get directly involved.What is the city of Aachen doing in the field of hydrogen?
Aachen is actively working on the widespread use of hydrogen - in line with the strategies of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Federal Republic of Germany and the European Union.
The aim is to pave the way for climate neutrality by 2030.How can companies benefit from hydrogen technologies?
Hydrogen can reduce energy costs and open up new technical and economic business models. In the EMR-H2HUBs project, companies in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine receive free transformation advice from a specialized engineering office, which checks whether hydrogen can be used sensibly and economically in operations. Please contact us if you are interested.
Information on the expert opinion on the spatial impact assessment H2BE Aachen-Lichtenbusch to Eschweiler-Weisweiler
Statement by the Cologne district government
Do you have any questions or suggestions? Please feel free to contact us!