Transmission system operators Thyssengas H2 GmbH and Open Grid Europe GmbH (OGE) have finalized a framework agreement with the Westphalian-Lippe Agricultural Association (WLV) to secure land rights for a pivotal hydrogen pipeline across North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW).

The deal establishes uniform guidelines for acquiring rights-of-way, creating a standardized blueprint for negotiations with local farmers and landowners along the route.

The 100-kilometer (62-mile) line forms the NRW section of the Emsbüren–Dorsten corridor, a major link designed to deliver hydrogen from the North Sea coast and the Netherlands to the industrial heartland of the Ruhr region.

"With this agreement, we have reached an important milestone for the project," said Hubert Jesolowitz, project manager for the Emsbüren–Dorsten hydrogen pipeline.

"We value the constructive exchange with the Westphalian-Lippe Agricultural Association.

Based on this, we now want to proceed with personal discussions on-site and clearly explain the next steps."

WLV President Hubertus Beringmeier highlighted that the agreement creates a fair, transparent, and reliable foundation for agricultural producers affected by the infrastructure footprint.

To outline the acquisition process and address landowner concerns, Thyssengas plans to host several joint informational sessions with the WLV across NRW in November 2026.

The outreach comes as developers prepare the requisite permit applications for regional authorities. Thyssengas expects to submit formal planning approval documents for both NRW and Lower Saxony in early 2027.

Once operational in 2030, the new pipeline will bridge planned core hydrogen network hubs between Emsland and the Ruhr, establishing a crucial north-south transit route.

Energy officials expect the expanded network to supply heavy industry, small and medium-sized enterprises, and local municipalities as Germany accelerates its transition toward sustainable infrastructure.