Inner Mongolia has announced plans to construct a major hydrogen pipeline network, marking a significant shift from China’s current truck-based hydrogen transportation system. The network will comprise eight new pipelines, designed to connect major industrial hubs and facilitate hydrogen exports across China.
Green Hydrogen Production Capacity Drives Pipeline Development
As of April 2024, Inner Mongolia has established itself as a global leader in green hydrogen development, with over 30 approved projects totaling 855,000 tonnes of annual capacity. Notable projects include:
- Geely’s 100,000 tonnes-per-year green methanol facility (under construction)
- China Coal Group’s matching-scale project (in development)
Economic Benefits of Pipeline Transportation
The Inner Mongolia Energy Bureau emphasizes that pipeline transport offers clear cost advantages over traditional methods when handling over 10,000 tonnes annually. This efficiency drives the shift from the current tube trailer delivery system.
Network Structure and Coverage
The planned infrastructure includes:
- Main trunk pipeline running west to east
- Two circular ring pipelines at terminal points
- Five branch lines connecting to the trunk
- Four export points linking to industrial centers in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei
The main trunk line will connect major cities:
- Ordos
- Hohhot
- Ulanquab
- Xilingol
- Chifeng
This route spans approximately 1,000+ kilometers, positioning it among the world’s largest hydrogen pipeline networks.
Implementation Timeline and Challenges
The development strategy follows three phases:
- Short-term: Focus on pipelines with confirmed supply and usage agreements
- Medium-term: Expand trunk, branch, and ring networks
- Long-term: Complete network integration and interconnection
Current Infrastructure and Technical Requirements
China’s existing hydrogen pipeline infrastructure remains limited:
- Approximately 100km of operational hydrogen pipelines
- Planned 737km Zhangjiakou Kangbao-Caofeidian pipeline in development
- Recent high-pressure transmission tests in Xinjiang demonstrated 50% higher pressure capability
Key areas requiring advancement include:
- Low-cost, high-strength materials resistant to hydrogen embrittlement
- Enhanced pipeline design and manufacturing technology
- Comprehensive technical and safety standards
These developments aim to support China’s growing hydrogen economy and establish efficient distribution networks for sustainable energy transportation.
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