January 06, 2026 [Storage Terminals Magazine]- Gas network operator Open Grid Europe GmbH and HES Wilhelmshaven Tank Terminal GmbH have signed an agreement for an option to connect to the hydrogen network of the Wilhelmshaven Coastal Line. With this step, HES Wilhelmshaven Terminal GmbH is enabling the import of hydrogen and hydrogen derivatives, playing an important role in Germany’s energy transition, while also providing the WKL with the option to connect to multiple companies in the region.

German Hydrogen Backbone Infrastructure

The WKL is part of the German hydrogen backbone. OGE received the mandate from the Federal Network Agency and the German government in October 2024 to construct main sections of the hydrogen backbone. This network will connect import facilities in northern Germany with consumers of hydrogen. The WKL and the North Sea-Ruhr Link form the central pipelines for transporting hydrogen from the north to the west of Germany. Construction of these pipelines is scheduled to start in 2026, with commissioning planned for end of 2027.

Coen Janssen, managing director of HES Wilhelmshaven Tank Terminal, stated: “HES Wilhelmshaven is transitioning into a New Energies Hub. Enabling hydrogen delivery into Germany is a key part of our strategy and therefore we are pleased to have secured the option to connect to the WKL network.”

Strategic New Energies Hub

By signing the agreement, HES International is investing in its role as Germany’s new energies hub, which includes importing hydrogen and hydrogen carriers, exporting CO₂ as part of the CCS value chain from hard-to-abate sectors, electrification and the production of e-fuels such as e-SAF.