Luxembourg's hydrogen artery: first law on a transport network for green hydrogen adopted
Allison Saeng, Unsplash
On 20 March 2025, the Luxembourg Parliament (Chambre des députés) officially approved Bill No. 8298 on the construction and operation of a national hydrogen transport infrastructure. This document is the first legislative foundation on which to build the country's hydrogen policy, as set out in the strategy of 8 July 2021.
The bill aims to create a legal framework for the planning, development and operation of hydrogen pipelines and logistics hubs, as well as integration with similar networks in neighbouring countries. This is not just a domestic energy reform - Luxembourg sees itself as part of a large-scale European market for renewable hydrogen.
Lex Delles, Minister of Economy, SMEs, Energy and Tourism, said: "Access to sufficient quantities of renewable and competitive hydrogen will be key to decarbonising sectors such as industry and transport. With this law, Luxembourg declares its ambition to be an active participant in Europe's hydrogen economy."
The adopted law establishes the procedure for appointing the operator of the hydrogen network, approved by the Minister responsible for energy policy. Hydrogen transport infrastructure is now granted the status of "public utility" (utilité publique), allowing the state and municipal authorities to use both public and private land without the need for lengthy procedures. Additionally, the law provides for the creation of a ten-year plan for the development of the hydrogen network, reflecting a long-term vision of a sustainable and integrated energy system for the country.
The law also defines the functions of the hydrogen network operator: it must ensure compliance with the conditions of the construction and operation permit, guarantee the safety and reliability of the infrastructure, and comply with environmental and technical standards. Market monitoring and tariff regulation will be carried out by the ILR Regulatory Institute, which is responsible for controlling the transparency and sustainability of the hydrogen economy.
