Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-04-27 01:12Core Viewpoint - High transportation costs are a key bottleneck for the large-scale development of the hydrogen energy industry, and establishing a comprehensive hydrogen pipeline system is crucial for reducing costs and improving efficiency in hydrogen transport [1][13]. Industry Overview - Hydrogen pipelines are specialized systems that transport hydrogen from production sites to consumption points, similar to natural gas pipelines, and can be categorized into gaseous and liquid transport modes [2]. - The hydrogen pipeline industry is currently experiencing rapid development, with 29 provincial-level administrative regions in China having issued hydrogen energy special plans, and 27 provinces focusing on the research and demonstration of pipeline hydrogen transport technology [1][13]. Technical Routes - Hydrogen pipelines are mainly divided into pure hydrogen pipelines and natural gas blended hydrogen pipelines, with each type further categorized into high-pressure and low-pressure transport methods [3]. - Low-pressure hydrogen pipelines are the mainstream choice due to their maturity and lower costs, while high-pressure and blended hydrogen pipelines are still in the demonstration phase and face technical challenges [3]. Economic Advantages - Compared to liquid hydrogen transport, hydrogen pipelines offer significant long-term economic advantages for large-scale and long-distance hydrogen transport, with pipeline transport costs potentially reduced to 0.3 yuan per kilogram per 100 kilometers [6][7]. Policy Support - The Chinese government is actively promoting the construction of hydrogen pipelines through various policies, including financial subsidies and pilot projects, to accelerate the development of hydrogen storage and transportation infrastructure [8][9]. Current Development Status - As of March 2025, the total length of hydrogen pipelines in China is expected to exceed 7,000 kilometers, indicating a shift towards a networked and large-scale hydrogen storage and transportation system [1][13]. - Key projects include the Sinopec Jing-Mongolia hydrogen pipeline and the Kangbao-Caofeidian hydrogen pipeline, which are significant for the infrastructure of the hydrogen energy industry [15][16]. Competitive Landscape - The hydrogen pipeline industry in China is characterized by a three-tier competitive structure, with state-owned enterprises like Sinopec and PetroChina dominating the market, while private companies and foreign firms contribute through innovation and technology [22][24]. Future Trends - The industry is expected to evolve towards long-distance cross-regional transport, higher pressure and composite materials, and intelligent monitoring systems, with a focus on commercial operation models driven by policy and market forces [27][28][30].