AquaDuctus Launches Subsoil Investigations for North Sea Hydrogen Import Pipeline

The AquaDuctus electrolyzer project of gas pipeline operator Gascade is taking the next step towards implementation. As the company announced, subsoil investigations have now begun for the installation of the planned hydrogen import pipeline in the North Sea. With the necessary approvals in hand, work will commence at the earliest on July 20, 2026.

The investigations comprise geotechnical and geophysical analyses off and on the island of Norderney as well as off Hilgenriedersiel. They serve to determine the soil and subsurface conditions along the planned route – both at sea and in the coastal area. The data obtained forms the essential basis for determining the final route alignment, selecting suitable construction methods, and ensuring the safe and environmentally compatible implementation of the pipeline project.

The work is carried out primarily in a gentle and low-impact manner using various measurement methods. Only at carefully selected points are smaller sample collections planned to determine, for example, the load-bearing capacity of the subsurface more precisely. Environmental and water protection aspects are also comprehensively taken into account.

"With the implementation of the subsoil investigations, we are taking the next important step in realizing AquaDuctus. At the same time, we are creating the foundation for further planning to ensure the safe and responsible implementation of the project," says Sven Becker, Managing Director of AquaDuctus Pipeline GmbH.

With AquaDuctus, the German North Sea is developed as a central hydrogen import corridor. The pipeline project creates the prerequisite to connect offshore hydrogen generation projects such as the SEN-1 energy production area to the mainland and is thus an essential building block for developing a high-performance hydrogen infrastructure in Germany and Europe.