"Lifeline of European energy security"
Market inquiry launched for cross-border hydrogen corridor - project to advance infrastructure planning and industrial use in Europe
27.01.2026
Source: E & M powernews
The participating transmission system operators have launched a market survey for the European hydrogen infrastructure project "Nordic-Baltic Hydrogen Corridor (NBHC)".
The aim of the NBHC market survey is to "obtain early, non-binding market feedback to support the ongoing feasibility studies and give interested parties the opportunity to actively shape the next phase of the project", according to a statement from the gas network operators. The following are involved in the development of the NBHC: Gasgrid (Finland), Elering (Estonia), Conexus Baltic Grid (Latvia), Amber Grid (Lithuania), Gaz-System (Poland) and Ontras (Germany).
The expression of interest is aimed at hydrogen producers and consumers, distribution system operators, storage system operators and hydrogen transporters. They can provide non-binding information on hydrogen production and consumption, infrastructure plans and cross-border transportation requirements along the corridor.
"NBHC is more than just a pipeline - it is the lifeline of European energy security. This project will create a resilient, renewable energy system that supports the Green Deal and the Re-Power EU strategy, while establishing a new economic ecosystem for hydrogen. By connecting six Member States, the NBHC demonstrates how collaboration can turn climate targets into industrial reality," said Ralph Bahke, Ontras Managing Director Steering and Development.
Reducing dependence on fossil fuels
Bahke further emphasized that the establishment of a dedicated hydrogen backbone through Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany will help reduce Europe's dependence on imported fossil fuels, decarbonize industry on a large scale and invest in renewable energy and hydrogen technologies. Furthermore, the corridor is an important symbol of European integration. It also strengthens regional cooperation and competitiveness.
The project has been recognized by the European Commission as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) and will receive funding of 6.8 million euros for the feasibility phase from the Connecting Europe Facility programme. The NBHC is intended as a strategic enabler for the EU's most important energy and climate targets.
Commercial operation planned from 2033
Following the successful completion of the pre-feasibility study in June 2024, the project entered the feasibility phase last year. National and cross-border studies are due to be completed at the beginning of 2027. The results will form the basis for the decision on the next project phase.
The NBHC is designed to transport around 2.7 million tons of hydrogen per year by 2040, supported by a main pipeline network of around 2,500 kilometers in length connecting Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany. The aim is for commercial operation from 2033.
The survey will be available online until March 31, 2026. NBHC will then invite participants to further discussions in order to compare market requirements with project development.
Author: Günter Drewnitzky