Gasgrid and Fingrid: Energy transmission infrastructures as enablers of the hydrogen economy and clean energy system
The Finnish electricity and gas transmission operators have collaborated on their joint project, Energy Transmission Networks as Enablers of the Hydrogen Economy and a Clean Energy System, as part of the HYGCEL project funded by Business Finland. This initiative aims to evaluate the potential for hydrogen transmission infrastructure and its role in Finland’s transition to a clean energy system.
The analysis presents three key scenarios: Strong Regional Hydrogen Economy, European Hydrogen Market, and Leading Hydrogen Ecosystem. These explore different pathways for hydrogen production, consumption, and transmission infrastructure development. The study models the integration of electricity and hydrogen systems and considers Finland’s role as a key exporter of hydrogen and its downstream products. All scenarios were modelled using AFRY’s BID3 model which seamlessly incorporates the co-optimisation of the hydrogen sector.
In the report, Fingrid and Gasgrid Finland highlight the following key findings:
- Finland’s clean hydrogen production is projected to reach 35–50 TWh by 2030 and 80–135 TWh by 2040, requiring electrolyser capacity of 10–15 GW by 2030 and 25–40 GW by 2040.
- Onshore wind power is identified as a cost-effective driver for hydrogen production growth, with significant investments needed in transmission infrastructure.
- Investments in the hydrogen economy could generate billions in market value and support Finland’s goal of producing over 10% of the EU’s hydrogen demand.
The work highlights the need of joint planning of electricity and hydrogen transmission network to meet Finland’s hydrogen economy potential and support hydrogen storage, cross-border trade, and sector integration
The findings will guide Fingrid and Gasgrid Finland’s future planning, fostering a robust, flexible energy system and setting up Finland’s role in the European hydrogen economy.
