Belgian gas transmission system operator Fluxys has started building its hydrogen pipeline network, which will run in the port areas of Antwerp and Ghent.

The company, which has been appointed as Belgium’s hydrogen network operator, says the first phase of the project has been made possible thanks to public funding. The open-access hydrogen transport infrastructure will feature “multi-purpose technology,” indicating the pipelines can be used for natural gas, CO2 and hydrogen.

“The first step of this network will be ready in 2026 and will be gradually expanded over the coming years in line with market development,” the company says without disclosing capacity figures. The infrastructure expansion will be tied to the investment risk being brought to “an acceptable level by government mechanisms,” it adds.

Pascal De Buck, ceo of Fluxys hydrogen, notes the start of construction highlights its “essential” role in decarbonising industry. Fluxys has previously unveiled a goal to offer an annual hydrogen transmission capacity of 30 terawatt-hours by 2030.

The first phase covers a 35-km Zelzate-Kallo pipeline between the ports of Ghent and Antwerp and a 14-km line in the Port of Antwerp. A spokesperson tells Kallanish that the pipelines will have a 600-millimetre diameter and a design pressure of 84 bar.

Details on transportation capacity, customer bookings and commissioning timelines are yet to be disclosed.