The HyExperts project delivers a comprehensive guide that consolidates the methods developed by the consortium for regional hydrogen (H₂) potential analysis and for the creation of implementation concepts along the entire hydrogen value chain. The guide is organised into distinct chapters that cover generation, supply, demand, regulatory aspects, and funding pathways, each supported by checklists, best‑practice examples, and identified challenges with corresponding solutions. The methodology is illustrated through a series of case studies from different German regions, such as Aachen‑PLUS, H2Ostwürttemberg, the Landkreis Wartburgkreis, and the Landkreis Havelland, as well as a maritime mobility study (LBST 2023) and a Frankfurt‑based fleet analysis (MH2Regio).
In the potential‑analysis chapter, the report details how to quantify regional renewable electricity generation potentials, calculate theoretical photovoltaic (PV) capacities in megawatts (MW) and the resulting PV generation potential in gigawatt‑hours per year (GWh / a). It also explains how to assess the availability of electricity for electrolysis, the surplus or deficit of regional power supply, and the feasibility of converting existing natural‑gas pipelines to hydrogen transport. The output parameters include a stakeholder map, regional renewable electricity potentials, projected electricity surplus/deficit, and a schematic of future hydrogen network routes that could repurpose existing gas lines. For example, the H2Ostwürttemberg study provides an indicative economic assessment that incorporates line‑loading scenarios and estimated network charges, while the Wartburgkreis study offers a preliminary cost estimate for pipeline construction and operation.
The concept‑development chapter focuses on the techno‑economic feasibility of hydrogen projects, particularly those based on electrolysis. It outlines a nine‑step process that starts with a top‑down demand forecast for mobility, proceeds to a bottom‑up fleet‑specific high‑growth analysis, and culminates in a detailed pipeline dimensioning and hydraulic calculation. The guide presents best‑practice examples such as the H2 pipeline transport case, which demonstrates how to determine the minimum pipe diameter required to meet projected demand and how to estimate net charges under different utilisation scenarios. The fleet‑analysis section shows how to derive vehicle‑specific hydrogen consumption curves, create heatmaps of location‑specific demand, and model fleet‑share scenarios ranging from conservative to optimistic growth paths.
Regulatory and permitting aspects are addressed in a dedicated chapter that summarises the legal framework for hydrogen generation and infrastructure, including the German Hydrogen Acceleration Act and the THG quota system. It also explains the necessary steps for obtaining permits, coordinating with grid operators, and engaging with local planning authorities. The funding chapter offers a roadmap for identifying suitable grant programmes, providing links to advisory services, and outlining the application process for public and private financing.
Collaboration within HyExperts is structured around a consortium of German research institutes, universities, industry partners, and local authorities. The project is organised in phases, with Phase I establishing the baseline methodology and Phase II expanding the application to multiple regions. The consortium’s work is supported by the German federal government under the national hydrogen strategy, which provides financial backing and policy guidance. The HyLand website (www.hy.land) hosts all documentation, including downloadable reports and detailed case studies, ensuring that stakeholders can access the full set of tools and findings. Through this collaborative effort, HyExperts delivers a practical, evidence‑based framework that enables stakeholders to assess regional hydrogen potentials, design viable projects, and navigate the regulatory and funding landscape.