The advancement of a direct gas pipeline connecting Norway and the Netherlands is progressing following the successful completion of a feasibility study. North Sea pipeline operator Nogat is now focusing on refining crucial aspects of the project, such as its transport capacity. This new connection is anticipated to offer an alternative route for Norwegian gas, enhancing the security of supply in the event of disruptions to existing pipeline links.
Scheduled to commence operations in 2029, the pipeline is designed to have a capacity exceeding 4 billion cubic metres of gas annually, which is approximately 15% of the Netherlands’ total gas demand. This infrastructure project is deemed vital as domestic energy production dwindles and Europe strives to lessen its reliance on suppliers from geopolitically unstable regions.
Nogat highlighted the ease with which the new infrastructure could be integrated with the Norwegian offshore pipeline, thanks to the existing gas system. Falco van Wissen, Director of Nogat, emphasized that Norwegian gas already constitutes about one-third of Europe’s gas imports and is a cleaner option compared to LNG imports.
The completion of the feasibility study marks a significant step forward in the project’s development. As the next phase unfolds, the parties involved are expected to finalize the additional investments required for the project by the middle of next year. This development underscores the ongoing efforts to secure and diversify the energy supply for the Netherlands and the broader European region.
