Hydrogen Pipeline Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Type (Fixed, Mobile), By Form (Gas, Liquid), By Pipeline Structure (Plastic & Composites, Metal), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2024 To 2029

The hydrogen pipeline market is anticipated to expand at a high CAGR over the forecast period.

A hydrogen pipeline constitutes a specialized network specifically engineered for the efficient transportation of hydrogen gas from its production origins, such as refineries or hydrogen generation facilities, to various end-users or designated distribution points. Functioning akin to conventional natural gas pipelines, these dedicated hydrogen transportation systems are intricately designed to convey hydrogen gas across extended distances, ensuring a reliable and secure supply chain. The pipelines are constructed with materials and technologies tailored to the unique properties of hydrogen, taking into account factors such as its susceptibility to embrittlement. Additionally, advanced safety measures and monitoring systems are often incorporated to address the challenges associated with hydrogen's potential reactivity and permeability. The development and expansion of hydrogen pipelines play a pivotal role in supporting the growth of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier, facilitating the seamless integration of hydrogen into diverse industrial and energy applications.

Market Drivers

• The rising need for mobile pipelines to supply hydrogen in isolated or remote areas.

Fixed pipelines are permanent installations designed for transporting hydrogen from production facilities to end-use locations, typically constructed with high-strength steel and composite materials to accommodate the unique properties of hydrogen. Operating under high pressure, these pipelines ensure the gaseous state of hydrogen while minimizing the risks of leakage and embrittlement. Fixed pipelines are preferred when there is a stable, high-volume demand for hydrogen, predictable pathways between source and demand centers, and a favorable life cycle cost-benefit analysis for permanent infrastructure over mobile alternatives. They primarily serve industrial clusters, power plants, and large-scale consumers like chemical production facilities. In contrast, mobile pipelines, including high-pressure tube trailers, tankers, and cylinder packs transported by road, rail, and sea, provide an alternative for decentralized hydrogen production sites and regions with fluctuating demand or lacking established pipeline networks. Mobile pipelines offer flexibility, scalability, and lower initial capital investment, making them suitable for remote areas and emerging markets where fixed pipelines may not be justified. While fixed pipelines are considered a cost-effective choice for continuous, large-volume transfers over stable routes, mobile pipelines offer operational flexibility and cater to variable demand patterns, aligning with the growing trend towards decentralized renewable energy sources, including green hydrogen. It's anticipated that fixed pipelines will remain crucial for hydrogen transport infrastructure, serving as a long-term investment backbone.

• Plastics and elastomers are being increasingly utilized because of their reduced weight and the potential for lower expenses.

Traditional metallic pipelines, particularly those constructed from high-strength steel alloys, have conventionally been employed for gas transportation due to their robustness, durability, and ability to withstand high pressures, making them a preferred choice for large-scale and high-pressure hydrogen transport. These pipelines, especially when made from steel, are well-suited for extended distances and underground installations, but they require proper coatings and maintenance to prevent corrosion. In contrast, there is a growing interest in non-metallic pipelines, comprising materials like thermoplastics and composites, for hydrogen transportation. These materials offer inherent resistance to hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion, and their lighter weight facilitates more straightforward and cost-effective installation. Elastomers, such as rubber compounds, find application in seals and gaskets within hydrogen pipelines, providing flexibility and effective sealing. However, formulations must be tailored to withstand hydrogen permeation and maintain integrity amidst pressure and temperature fluctuations. Plastic materials, including polyethylene and thermoplastic composites, are also being explored for pipeline applications due to their corrosion resistance and reduced susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement.

The Middle East and Africa region is anticipated to hold a significant share of the hydrogen pipeline market

The Middle East & Africa region stands out as the most rapidly expanding sector in the hydrogen pipeline market, establishing itself as a worldwide center for hydrogen pipeline advancement. This growth is propelled by various factors, including abundant renewable energy resources, a rising demand for hydrogen, supportive governmental policies, the presence of established oil and gas infrastructure, and a strategically advantageous location for export. The region is actively engaged in upcoming and ongoing projects that underscore its commitment to leading in the development of hydrogen pipelines. With a combination of existing renewable energy capabilities, technological progress, and environmental considerations, the Middle East & Africa is playing a pivotal role in the global energy transition and shaping the trajectory of the hydrogen pipeline market.

Market Developments

• In January 2024, Wood, the engineering and consulting firm, is undertaking a project for a Southern European energy company. The project involves evaluating the viability of converting 125 kilometers of existing natural gas pipelines for the transportation of hydrogen along the Mediterranean coastline. This study aims to support the energy company's objectives of decarbonization and its aspirations to serve as a facilitator for hydrogen, connecting European production to demand.
• In December 2023, DNV supported the UK National Gas Transmission with the world's first hydrogen pipeline research facility. DNV served as the lead partner for National Gas Transmission (NGT) in the ongoing expansion of the pioneering hydrogen pipeline research facility, FutureGrid.
• In November 2023, Germany and Italy entered into an agreement to enhance their collaboration in the energy sector, aiming to bolster supply security and facilitate the transition to climate neutrality. A crucial component of this collaboration involves the establishment of gas and hydrogen pipelines traversing the Alps. The expansion of energy cooperation signifies a strategic effort by both nations to deepen their commitment to sustainable energy solutions, emphasizing the importance of cross-border infrastructure for the effective and secure transportation of gas and hydrogen. This initiative aligns with broader European goals of achieving climate neutrality and fostering regional energy integration, showcasing a shared commitment to addressing environmental challenges through cross-national collaboration.
• In October 2023, City Energy and Gentari inked a Joint Feasibility Study Agreement for the development of a pipeline extending from Malaysia to Singapore, facilitating the import of hydrogen into the Republic. This collaboration follows a Memorandum of Understanding established in April 2023 between City Energy, Singapore's exclusive producer and distributor of piped town gas and a wholly owned subsidiary of Keppel Infrastructure Trust, and Gentari, a Malaysian clean energy solutions provider wholly owned by PETRONAS.

Market Segmentation

• By Type
  • Fixed
  • Mobile
• By Form
  • Gas
  • Liquid
• By Pipeline Structure
  • Plastic & Composites
  • Metal
• By Geography
  • North America
    • United States
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Others
  • Europe
    • United Kingdom
    • Germany
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain  
    • Others
  • Middle East and Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • UAE
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • Japan
    • China
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Taiwan
    • Thailand
    • Indonesia
    • Others