Green hydrogen is one of the key energy carriers of the energy transition. Switzerland, too, is pursuing ambitious goals with its National Hydrogen Strategy. A central finding: from 2035 onward, hydrogen imports will gain significant importance. For us and our Hydrogen Portfolio, this opens the opportunity to actively participate in shaping the emerging international hydrogen logistics system.
Growing demand makes imports necessary
According to Hydrogen Europe, the Swiss hydrogen strategy expects demand to rise moderately at first, but then to increase significantly by the mid-2030s. Drivers of this growth include new applications in industry, heavy transport, and aviation.
Although Switzerland has strong potential in hydropower and other renewable energies, domestic production will likely not be sufficient to meet total demand. A study in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy highlights that imports will be a central element of supply security (ScienceDirect).
Infrastructure and logistics as key factors
Repurposing existing gas grids
One of the most cost-efficient options for hydrogen transport is the conversion of existing gas pipelines.
Reports from CNG-Mobility show that many high-pressure gas pipelines can transport hydrogen after technical adjustments.
At the same time, EIZ Publishing emphasizes the importance of clear legal and safety regulations.
International import corridors
Europe is currently developing large-scale hydrogen networks.
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The SouthH2 Corridor aims to bring green hydrogen from North Africa via Italy and Austria to Germany—with potential connections to Switzerland (SouthH2 Corridor).
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The European Hydrogen Backbone initiative is planning an extensive European hydrogen grid that integrates both existing and new pipelines (European Hydrogen Backbone PDF).
For our Hydrogen Portfolio, such corridors are essential to ensure stable and competitive import capacities in the long run.
Economic perspectives and technology
Falling production costs are making imported hydrogen increasingly attractive.
An analysis by PwC predicts that progress in electrolysis technology and falling renewable energy costs will significantly reduce the price of green hydrogen.
For us, this means that investments in infrastructure and technology across the entire value chain are becoming economically more appealing.
Our Hydrogen Portfolio as a bridge
Our Hydrogen Portfolio is designed precisely for these developments:
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Participation in international transport projects like the SouthH2 Corridor strengthens our positioning in a future European hydrogen hub.
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The development of regional H2 hubs in Switzerland enables efficient storage and distribution of imported hydrogen.
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Investments in forward-looking technologies, such as high-performance electrolysers and storage solutions, complement our strategy and expand the value chain.
This way, we can seize the opportunities of the international hydrogen economy while actively supporting Switzerland’s energy transition.
Opportunities and challenges at a glance
Opportunities:
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Development of H2 hubs for import, storage, and distribution.
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Early participation in European transport corridors to secure long-term supply rights.
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Use and conversion of existing gas infrastructure to optimize investment costs.
Challenges:
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Resolving legal and safety issues in transport and storage.
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Reliable supply contracts and price stability.
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Political and economic stability in exporting countries.
Conclusion
With its central location, stable political framework, and well-developed energy networks, Switzerland has the potential to establish itself as a hub for European hydrogen trade from 2035 onwards.
Our Hydrogen Portfolio is ideally positioned to benefit from this development and actively contribute to it—through infrastructure, international partnerships, and technological innovation.
Recommended further reading
Here is a neatly arranged list of further readings on Switzerland’s role in the European hydrogen network:
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Hydrogen for an Energy Resilient Europe – Hydrogen Europe
Explores the combination of local production and international imports to stabilize energy supply and stresses the importance of diversification and long-term security of supply.
Link to PDF -
TYNDP 2024 – Hydrogen Infrastructure Gaps Identification Report (ENTSOG / GIE)
Identifies weaknesses in the European hydrogen network and evaluates country connections, including Switzerland, which is key for cross-border logistics and pipeline needs.
Link to report -
Minimum-Regret Hydrogen Supply Chain Strategies – Ganter, Gabrielli, Goericke, Sansavini
Scientific study on strategies for robust hydrogen supply chains under uncertainty, designed to minimize investment risks and support long-term projects.
Link to study