Oxford – From natural gas to hydrogen

On April 12, 2024, the European Parliament adopted the RNGH Directive and Regulation, also known as the Decarbonised Gas and Hydrogen Package, which will regulate hydrogen and natural gas networks in the EU once approved by the Council. The framework allows for flexibility and security of supply through transition periods, exemptions, and financial support. However, it may not be sufficient for the EU hydrogen market to develop at scale. The framework does not guarantee a coordinated phasing out of natural gas networks, potentially impacting their security of supply. It assumes a rapid and large-scale development of the hydrogen market without providing a safety net in case of slower progress. The framework will likely need adjustments and further development, especially as more rules are established in the upcoming network codes in the 2020s.