The amendment to the German Energy Industry Act provides the starting signal for a legal basis with the addition of hydrogen in favour of the DVGW regulations for systems for the production, transport and distribution of hydrogen, thus the presumption rule regarding compliance with the generally recognised rules of technology for hydrogen networks for pipeline-based energy supply to the general public applies. With the DVGW regulations updated for hydrogen applications, gas pipelines for the distribution and transport of hydrogen can now be constructed, converted and operated. Depending on the object under consideration, different technical and legal assessment principles must be taken into account. In order to be able to safely operate an infrastructure for hydrogen within the meaning of the Energy Industry Act, further organisational, legal and economic requirements must also be met.

Individual levels for the application of the term "H₂ -ready" from the assessment of the material to the steel pipes, the high-pressure gas pipeline and the specifications for operation are brought together to form an integral assessment. The assessment criteria for newly constructed or converted gas pipelines are specified in various DVGW regulations which have been adapted for the use of hydrogen.

An overview of the requirements for newly constructed and converted steel gas pipelines for the distribution and transportation of hydrogen is presented, from material testing to approval.