A Dutch-German consortium takes a major leap toward a hydrogen-powered future

The transition to a climate-neutral industry is accelerating in the Twente region. This week marks an important milestone: a unique Dutch-German consortium has signed an agreement to connect to the German hydrogen network near Nordhorn. This connection opens the door to a future-proof energy system. By repurposing an existing pipeline from Cogas, hydrogen can be transported directly to companies in Twente, especially benefiting energy-intensive industries that still rely on natural gas.

A strong and broad partnership

This initiative is made possible by a strong coalition of partners, including:
Gemeente Enschede, Gemeente Almelo, Gemeente Hengelo, Gemeente Oldenzaal, Industrie und Handelskammer Nord Westfalen, Oost NL, TECH.LAND, H2HUB Twente, Twenteboard, Energiestrategie Twente (RES Twente), Thyssengas, Cogas, and the Provincie Overijssel.
Together, these partners are demonstrating the power of cross-border collaboration and shared ambition.

From Brussels to Twente

At TECH.LAND, we are especially proud that this initiative originated from our mission to Brussels. What started as a strategic exchange has evolved into a concrete project with real impact for the region and beyond.

A shared commitment to next steps

While the T-piece represents an important first step, it is only the beginning. Through this symbolic agreement, all partners commit to the next phase of development, with clear and shared goals:

Completing a joint regional assessment by 2026 to identify areas in Twente suitable for hydrogen supply before 2030
Engaging actively with businesses to explore economic opportunities and support the development of hydrogen demand
Exploring financing options and preparing for an investment decision on regional hydrogen infrastructure by 2027
Leveraging cooperation with Dutch and German neighboring regions, while also identifying European opportunities
Jointly advocating for policies that make the transition to hydrogen attractive at both national and international level
Accelerating the development of regional hydrogen infrastructure, building on existing energy strategies, with the goal of enabling the first hydrogen offtake before 2030

More than infrastructure

This project is about more than building pipelines. It is about economic strength, innovation, and positioning the TECH.LAND area as a forward-looking industrial region in a European context.
By working together across borders, the partners are laying the foundation for a hydrogen ecosystem that supports industry, strengthens competitiveness, and contributes to a sustainable future.

We are also proud, that this step was shared in the dutch Newspaper Tubantia.