Lochem Pilot Project

Alliander is the largest electricity and gas grid operator in the Netherlands, facing challenges as a result of the energy transition. It is for this reason that, in 2017, they began developing expertise in the field of hydrogen.

What exactly is hydrogen?

To answer this, Alliander conducted numerous small-scale tests in collaboration with KIWA–NL and various suppliers. Subsequently, they travelled to the UK to undertake an in-depth course on hydrogen and safety.

As the next step, together with their association of network operators, Gasunie, and TKI, they launched the Hydelta research program. Alongside building their knowledge, the idea emerged to seek out a real-world project. 

This led to the launch of the pioneering Lochem project, where they had the opportunity to demonstrate that the existing distribution grid and in-house piping are suitable for hydrogen. For three years, the homes involved have remained comfortably warm and have enjoyed hot water provided by the condensing boiler from Remeha (Baxi in the UK).

Alliander explained the structure of the Lochem project and shared the lessons learned at various stages, including the (pre-planned) decommissioning of the project in October 2025. The insights gained from the Lochem project have proved extremely valuable for their commercial projects in Deventer and Amsterdam.

Alliander is preparing to be ready for hydrogen, ensuring that they are not the bottleneck, but rather the enablers of the energy transition.