Three Questions for Detlef Brüggemeyer, OGE

In September, Open Grid Europe (OGE), together with DVGW and GWI, set up a Europe-wide unique H₂ training track in Werne – a realistic test environment where new work processes for the safe transport of hydrogen can be developed and trained. We spoke with Detlef Brüggemeyer about why this facility is a central building block for scaling up the hydrogen infrastructure. He is a member of the management board of Open Grid Europe GmbH (CTO) and responsible for the technical division.

1. Why did OGE, DVGW, and GWI create the H₂ training track?
   
   As a gas network operator, OGE is an important player in the energy transition and a trailblazer of the green transformation in Germany and Europe. The transmission network we operate covers around 12,000 km – two-thirds of Germany’s natural gas consumption flows through our system. At the same time, we are developing into a leading infrastructure and service provider for gaseous energy. This includes developing and operating a hydrogen infrastructure (using existing systems where possible) and offering related services. That is why we decided to build the training track in Werne. All key system components needed for hydrogen transport are available there, meaning we can practise all workflows under real conditions. From our perspective, the H₂ training track is an important step toward a future with abundant energy.
   
2. What differentiates working on natural gas pipelines from working on hydrogen pipelines?
   
   OGE employees already have extensive expertise in handling natural gas. However, hydrogen differs significantly in its composition and properties. It is the smallest molecule and will find even the tiniest gaps – making the correct tightening of flange connections even more important. In addition, hydrogen is known to be very reactive, especially in contact with oxygen. For this reason, nitrogen purging is required for many types of work.
   
   This has an impact on our future work processes. These processes are developed, adapted, and improved here on the training track and then rolled out as best practice in our training programmes. This ensures safety for those who maintain the hydrogen network, for the environment, for the people living near the hydrogen infrastructure, and for the industry and all others who depend on a safe hydrogen supply.
   
3. How does the theoretical and practical training work?
   
   We begin with one day of theory at our colleagues at GWI. This is followed by three days on the OGE training track, consisting of half a day of theory refresher and an introduction to the training track and the exercises planned there, followed by 2.5 days of practical training.
   
   During those 2.5 days of hands-on work, participants prepare isolation plans, detect leaks, carry out valve function tests, install and remove a flanged pipe section, and plan, prepare, and ultimately carry out a pipeline isolation measure. All with the aim of learning how to use new tools and procedures and how to work independently in an H₂ environment.