The Ruhr region is a leader in hydrogen development, with plans for a 9,700 km network and connections to key seaports, poised to become a national model region for Germany’s hydrogen market.
The Ruhr metropolis offers the best conditions in Germany for the development of a hydrogen economy. This is shown by the second National Hydrogen Ranking of the German Economic Institute (IW). The study compares the strengths and potential of nine important hydrogen regions in Germany. The Ruhr region has the best conditions in the categories
- Hydrogen-related companies
- Hydrogen infrastructure
- Hydrogen clusters and initiatives
- Hydrogen-related start-ups
- Business landscape
The good starting conditions in the Ruhr region are also underlined by the current government resolution on the 9,700 km long hydrogen core network, which was presented by Economics Minister Robert Habeck this week. The network is to connect important hydrogen producers, import points and consumers in the coming years. Many kilometers of this network are to run through the Ruhr metropolitan region. In addition to the many potential customers in industry, this is certainly also due to the good connections to the seaports in Antwerp and Rotterdam, which play a key role in the production and import of hydrogen.
“The Ruhr region is a hydrogen ecosystem with the right vibe, with committed people, companies with vision and a lively start-up scene,” said ZBT Managing Director Dr. Peter Beckhaus. “We are delighted to be right in the middle of it!”
The Ruhr region is also well positioned in hydrogen research. In terms of facilities per inhabitant, it does not look so good (5th place) – but the Ruhr region is also one of the most densely populated regions in Germany. On the other hand, the Ruhr region achieved a good third place in the qualitative assessment. Overall, the IW recommended setting up a national model region for hydrogen in the Ruhr metropolis in order to accelerate the market ramp-up throughout Germany.
