Serbia Explores Future Hydrogen Transport for Natural Gas Pipeline Network
Serbia's natural gas pipeline transmission system operator, Transportgas Srbija, has invited bids for a comprehensive study into the technical feasibility of integrating hydrogen into the nation's gas network.
The initiative underscores Serbia's commitment to decarbonization and energy security, aligning with broader European energy transition goals.
According to Transportgas, the study will assess the volume of hydrogen that can be transported through existing pipelines and the impact of blending hydrogen with natural gas on the transmission system and key industrial consumers.
The company highlighted the growing importance of hydrogen as an alternative fuel. They noted Energy Community's objectives for defining natural gas quality across Southeast European transmission systems, focusing on hydrogen integration.
A key aspect of the research will be determining the maximum percentage of hydrogen that can be safely blended with natural gas without compromising equipment or increasing transmission losses.
The selected consultant will also define the blending procedure, identify optimal blending points, and pinpoint suitable locations for hydrogen production and storage within Serbia.
The project will also analyze the transport capacity of existing pipelines, considering varying natural gas qualities from diverse supply routes, including the recently constructed Balkan Stream pipeline and the interconnector with Bulgaria, which have diversified Serbia's gas supplies.
Major Serbian gas consumers — including Hesteelworks Železara Smederevo, the Rafinerija nafte Pančevo oil refinery, and various power and heating plants — will be evaluated for the impact of a hydrogen-natural gas blend on their operations.
After evaluation, the consultant will recommend necessary investments, such as new gas pipelines and infrastructure upgrades, and propose regulatory changes to facilitate hydrogen's introduction into the gas grid. Bids for the study are due by July 23, with the selected consultant having 180 days to complete the report.