The Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is actively exploring ways to support the hydrogen market and ensure that network tariffs for hydrogen transport remain affordable. Without intervention, tariffs are expected to rise significantly due to lower-than-anticipated hydrogen volumes and increased investment costs.

Hydrogen is seen as a vital component in the energy transition, particularly for sectors that are challenging to electrify. However, the hydrogen market is struggling to gain traction, partly due to uncertainties surrounding transport tariffs. The Dutch Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth currently sets these tariffs, but starting in 2033, ACM will take over this responsibility based on actual costs.

ACM board member Manon Leijten stated that the authority aims to keep hydrogen transport tariffs low and recognizes that broader regulatory measures are necessary. All stakeholders, including the government and network operators, must collaborate to address the challenges facing the hydrogen market.

Recent projections from Gasunie, the Dutch transmission system operator, indicate that the costs for establishing the hydrogen transport network may more than double, while expected hydrogen volumes are significantly lower than previously forecasted. This discrepancy could lead to much higher tariffs for businesses starting in 2033.

To mitigate these potential tariff increases, ACM suggests that policy measures should focus on boosting hydrogen volumes transported through the network. It is essential that the costs of network installation align with volume trends. ACM believes that Gasunie should seek commitments from current and future users before making final investment decisions regarding the hydrogen transport infrastructure.

ACM has identified several strategies to keep tariffs affordable during the market's startup phase, including the possibility of spreading installation costs over a longer period. This approach, permitted under European regulations, would allow network operators to recover costs through access tariffs more gradually. If the Dutch legislature approves this mechanism, ACM will implement it to facilitate market entry and ensure a fair distribution of initial costs among users.

Additionally, the Dutch government has options to support affordable tariffs, such as providing direct subsidies to Gasunie or offering loan guarantees.