The Potential Repurposing of Nord Stream 2 Pipeline for Hydrogen Transport

The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline connecting Russia and Germany faced severe damage in September 2022 following an explosion. StreamTec Solutions, a company formed from the management team of the Nord Stream pipelines, has conducted research on the current condition of Nord Stream 2 and potential future options, suggesting it could be repurposed for hydrogen transport.

Overview of Nord Stream 2

Nord Stream 2, completed in 2021, comprises two parallel pipeline strings, each 1,230 kilometers long and with a diameter of 1.2 meters, running through the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany. Although designed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of gas annually, the pipeline had not yet been used for gas transportation before the explosion.

Damage Assessment and Repurposing Options

On September 26, 2022, explosives caused severe damage to Line A of the gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea, while Line B remained intact. StreamTec Solutions’ technical study revealed that Line A’s damage is reparable, with minimal corrosion and the potential for repurposing without repair. Denmark has granted permission to preserve the pipeline.

Richard Taylor, Offshore Construction Manager at StreamTec Solutions, stated that repairing Line A is technically feasible and cost-effective compared to building a new pipeline. Additionally, repurposing the pipeline for hydrogen transport or LNG import could offer commercial advantages while contributing to Europe’s decarbonization efforts.

Potential Future Uses

StreamTec Solutions suggested repurposing Nord Stream 2 for hydrogen transport, as the pipeline’s steel is suitable for this purpose. Other options include converting it for importing LNG or using it as a gas storage facility. The company emphasized the importance of considering permitting obligations for any change of use.

Taylor highlighted that the pipelines could play a vital role in providing clean, renewable energy with minimal environmental impact. The expertise of StreamTec Solutions, derived from their involvement in the Nord Stream projects, ensures comprehensive insights for organizations exploring pipeline repair and repurposing.

Conclusion

With the technical feasibility of repairing Nord Stream 2 and the potential benefits of repurposing it for hydrogen transport, the pipeline could contribute significantly to Europe’s energy transition. StreamTec Solutions’ research underscores the opportunities for sustainable energy infrastructure development through innovative repurposing solutions.

As discussions continue on the future of Nord Stream 2, the possibility of repurposing the pipeline for hydrogen transport opens new avenues for clean energy distribution in the region.