Austria's Energie Steiermark starts 10% hydrogen blending in gas grid, plans 200km hydrogen-capable network
gasworld.comAustrian utility Energie Steiermark has begun injecting hydrogen into a natural gas pipeline in the region, blending at 10% for an industrial customer. The company plans to expand to 20% and build a 200km network of hydrogen-ready pipes, with another section under construction between Bruck/Mur and St. Michael/Traboch. The move follows a final investment decision on a 5MW green hydrogen plant in Bergla, targeted for 2027. Critics note that even 20% hydrogen blends only cut emissions by about 7%, raising questions about whether blending is the most efficient use of green hydrogen versus direct electrification or industrial use. Similar projects are emerging in Italy, where Italgas is supplying 10% blends to 220 end-users.