Hydrogen core network operators publish guidelines for capacity reservation from 2026 onwards – Strong signal for the ramp-up of hydrogen in Germany and Europe

The operators of the German hydrogen core network have today released important information for the market, facilitating the reservation of hydrogen capacities from the beginning of 2026. This initiative provides market participants with security for early planning and sends a clear signal for the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy in Germany.

Under the reservation concept, binding reservations for entry and exit capacities for hydrogen deliveries will be possible, marking a significant step towards greater security for hydrogen projects. Reservations will later be replaced by capacity bookings. In the initial phase, marketing will occur within dedicated clusters, allowing for flexible use of firm and freely allocable capacity. Transport between clusters will also be enabled.

With the release of the key principles for the reservation process, the German hydrogen core network operators are aligning with their European counterparts, who are also initiating similar network user processes. The regulatory framework, including the Federal Network Agency‘s determination procedures (WaKandA, WasABi), is set to be published and will be integrated into the ongoing development of standard contracts.

Through the reservation concept, the network operators are providing a significant boost for the development of cross-border hydrogen transport and for the ramp-up of the German hydrogen economy.

For more information on the individual clusters, please reach out directly to the respective hydrogen core network operators.