The operators of the German hydrogen core network have today published key information for the market, paving the way for the reservation of hydrogen capacities from the beginning of 2026. In doing so, they are creating planning security for market participants at an early stage and sending a clear signal in favour of the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy in Germany.
Based on the reservation concept, it will be possible to make binding reservations for entry and exit capacities for hydrogen deliveries - an important step towards greater security for hydrogen projects. Reservations will later be replaced by capacity bookings. In the initial phase, marketing will take place within so-called clusters, whereby freely assignable fixed hydrogen capacities will enable flexible utilisation. Transport between clusters will also be possible.
By publishing the key points of the reservation process, the German hydrogen core network operators are following the approach of European partners who are also launching corresponding network user processes. The regulatory basis - including the determination procedures of the Federal Network Agency (WaKandA, WasABi) - is about to be published and will be incorporated into the further development of the contractual standards.
With the reservation concept, the network operators are providing an important impetus for the development of cross-border hydrogen transport and for the hydrogen ramp-up in Germany. Further information on the individual clusters can be obtained directly from the responsible hydrogen core network operators.
To the market information pack