In order to achieve a secure, clean, and affordable energy future, the EU supports diverse cross-border infrastructure projects.  One of this projects is mosaHYc – a 100% pure hydrogen infrastructure linking Germany, France, and the Luxembourg border. Discover mosaHYc’s crucial aspects and its impact on Europe’s energy landscape. 

Key facts about the mosaHYc project 

mosaHYc (moselle-saar-Hydrogen-conversion) is a transformational project in the great region Saarland (Germany), Grand Est (France) and Luxembourg. The project aims to create a cross-border high-pressure grid. This, to support hydrogen business models in industry, the heat market, and the transport sector. 

The project plans to repurpose 70 km of inactive gas pipelines and add 30 km of new hydrogen pipelines, forming a 100 km infrastructure. The maximum capacity will reach 120,000 m3/h. It is targeted to transport over 50,000 tons of hydrogen annually by 2030.  

The importance of the mosaHYc program 

In Saarland, Grand-Est, and Luxembourg, mosaHYc is particularly important because there has been a substantial increase in hydrogen projects. The area hosts initiatives such as HydroHub Fenne, H2VWN & HyPower, and H2SYNgas. These initiatives collectively represent a substantial shift towards hydrogen production and sector coupling, fuel cell power plants, and strategic developments in the steel industry. To facilitate the growing hydrogen ecosystem, the mosaHYc project repurposes inactive gas pipelines, providing a cost-efficient and environmentally friendly solution.  

This approach aligns with the region’s commitment to reducing emissions. It offers accessible and transparent entry for diverse hydrogen producers and consumers across the Grande Région. The program, carried out by distribution grid operators addresses the current need for hydrogen transport and also lays the groundwork for future conversions of existing pipelines to pure hydrogen in various regions. This will significantly contribute to the transition towards sustainable industrial production. 

How the mosaHYc project works 

The mosaHYc project introduces an environmentally conscious approach by repurposing inactive gas pipelines to transport hydrogen, including repurposing 70 km of inactive gas pipelines and adding 30 km of new hydrogen pipelines.  

According to available studies, approximately 70% of onshore pipelines in Europe can be reused, leading to significant cost reductions. Estimated savings range from 53% to 82%, which amounts to 1 to 2 million Euros per kilometer. In addition to making effective use of existing infrastructure, this approach positions hydrogen as a leading clean technology worldwide, supporting economic recovery and environmental sustainability. 

Stages of the project 

The mosaHYc project is progressing according to a carefully planned timeline and milestones. The first phase, from 2021 to 2022, involves a comprehensive feasibility study to assess the technical and economic feasibility of repurposing existing pipelines for hydrogen transport.  

Subsequently, in 2023, the project entered the permitting process to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals for infrastructure modifications. The construction phase begins in 2024, which includes converting natural gas pipelines to hydrogen pipelines and adding new sections. Rigorous testing and certification of the infrastructure will take place in 2025 to ensure safety and compliance.  

The goal is for the mosaHYc network to become operational in 2026, facilitating hydrogen transportation in the Greater Region. Looking ahead, the project aims to transport over 50,000 tons annually by 2030, with future extensions envisioned beyond 2035, contributing to the expansive European hydrogen backbone.  

Projected impact of mosaHYc 

The mosaHYc program is a key contributor to the European Green Deal, supporting ambitious environmental and societal goals. Hydrogen infrastructure is essential to the development of a transborder hydrogen hub. Saarland and Lorraine, historically tightly integrated industrial clusters, can benefit significantly from mosaHYc. 

Additionally this program enhances economic and industry attractiveness in the region and serves as a concrete step toward Saarland’s vision of becoming a ‘Hydrogen State’. MosaHYc is leading the way in repurposing existing gas pipelines for cost-effective and eco-friendly hydrogen transport. This model is pioneering the shift towards a competitive hydrogen industry in the broader European market. 

Furthermore, MosaHYc strengthens its position as a catalyst for the European Union’s energy, climate, and industrial policy objectives by promoting communication with renewable or low-carbon hydrogen producers, grid users, and authorities in Germany, France, and Luxembourg. This transformative initiative addresses regional needs and serves as a pioneering model for a sustainable and interconnected European hydrogen market. 

Conclusion 

MosaHYc is a innovative project supports the integration of renewable and clean technologies into the EU’s energy system. By promoting interconnectivity and reducing reliance on energy imports from third countries, MosaHYc is in line with the EU’s strategic vision for a sustainable energy future.