On June 27, the then Minister of Climate and Energy informed the House of Representatives about the status of the Delta Rhine Corridor project. Over the past year, technical studies have shown that it is not realistic to lay all the pipes and cables together. The pipes and cables have different characteristics and require different laying techniques, so they cannot be laid at the same time. This was one of the original assumptions of the project. It has also been found that the hydrogen pipeline and the_{CO2 pipeline} are needed for commissioning earlier than the cables, since the wind farms (for which the cables are needed) will be completed later. 

Assess all spatial aspects in totality

The ministers involved (Economic Affairs, Interior, and Infrastructure and Water Management) have opted for joint spatial incorporation so that sufficient account is taken of each other in the exploration of where the pipelines and cables can be located and in the plan development. This also prevents spatial problems from arising during construction. Once the current Minister of Climate and Green Growth has chosen a route for all modalities, all parties will enter their own permit process.  

Schedule moved up

The schedule moves up from the previously communicated project schedule by at least four years. This means that the first modality (hydrogen) cannot be put into service until 2032, instead of the previously targeted schedule of 2028. Other modalities (_CO2, ammonia and direct current) will follow later, but also as soon as possible. In the meantime, we know 

• That the project organization needs to be set up differently and more solidly so that we can go through a proper spatial procedure together with all parties involved, 
• that in many places the various pipes and cables turn out not to fit within the strip reserved for them. Solutions must be found for this, and 
• that the desired early delivery date of the national hydrogen network clashes with an integral consideration of the spatial effects of all pipes and cables in the DRC. Gasunie has been asked to explore an alternative route for hydrogen at the same time as the Delta Rhine Corridor route.

The delay in the project also affects the rollout of the national hydrogen network. The exact impact on the rollout plan and hydrogen supply chain development will be clarified at a later date. 

Maintaining support base provinces

These developments and the decision were discussed by the then Minister of Climate and Energy with the three provinces involved. These reacted disappointed at the delay and that simultaneous construction is not possible. But they are in favor of the joint spatial procedure now chosen by the national government. They also continue to stress the importance of the Delta Rhine Corridor. They have submitted to the minister what is important to them to maintain support in these provinces. The minister has responded positively and wants to explore with the provinces how to respond to the suggestions. 

Chamber letter