From concept to pipeline
Our plans for the region
 

Achieving climate targets requires more than just political will – it requires specific, technical solutions. As an experienced operator of energy networks in the region, we have developed a detailed solution approach for how the safe and economically viable transport of hard-to-abate and unavoidable CO₂ can succeed in Bavaria and Austria.
Discover more here about our feasibility study, the planned infrastructure and the strong partners that have joined with us to build expertise together.

The feasibility study: proof that it works

To create a sound technical and planning framework, we drew up a feasibility study for a pipeline infrastructure between Burghausen, Gmunden and Linz. Why a cross-border study? Because the large CO₂ sources and potential offtakers in the Chemical Triangle of Southeast Bavaria and in the industrial area of Upper Austria are close to each other. A joint infrastructure makes most sense from an economic and ecological perspective. The largest producers of unavoidable emissions in this region are, in particular, the cement and lime industries alongside thermal waste treatment facilities.

Key study findings at a glance:

  • Technical metrics: The planned pipeline length of the initial network is approx. 220 km. The CO₂ should be transported in the so-called “liquid phase“.

  • Strategic necessity & open points: To implement the project successfully, stakeholders must be involved more closely and cooperation partners need to be established. In addition, specific challenges such as the exact pipeline routing and detailed technical questions still need to be explored in more detail in the ongoing planning process.

“The Rohrdorfer decarbonisation roadmap envisages the recovery of large quantities of CO2. If this CO2 is to be stored temporarily or used as a raw material, it must be transported efficiently and safely to its destinations. This can only be achieved through a rapid and dynamic construction of a CO2 pipeline network. The feasibility study on the CO2 pipeline network, in cooperation with bayernets, is our first important step.“

– Mike Edelmann
Managing Director Rohrdorfer Group

Bavaria's pioneer role: a project of national importance

As one of the first transmission system operators in Germany to specifically plan such a CO₂ network, we see ourselves in a pioneer role. Decades of experience as a gas network operator means we have the technical competence to implement this project safely and reliably. The insights gained in this process – both technical and from a regulatory perspective – will be of immense value when developing a national CO₂ infrastructure in Germany. To make sure other regions can benefit from our work and have fair access in the future, it is crucial that integration into a national network is considered from the outset.

The vision: from regional launch to European network

The co2peline project is designed as an important building block that connects central CO₂ sources and users in Bavaria and Upper Austria with each other. Our vision, however, goes far beyond that aim. In later development stages, it will be possible to link the pipeline to future, Central European CO₂ transport networks, creating connections to numerable further emitters, users and European storage facilities.

Such an interregional network is key to a successful European CO₂ economy. It facilitates close international cooperation and promotes the exchange of know-how and technologies, thereby lowering costs for all stakeholders, which ultimately supports global climate targets.

Our roadmap

  • Short term: Phase of detail planning, dialogue and creating the legal framework. Specific technical planning and approval procedures

  • Medium term: Possible construction and commissioning of the starter network in the Bavaria-Austria region.

  • Long term: Integration of the starter network into a growing, nationwide and European CO₂ infrastructure.

 

The way to commissioning: what must happen now


We as bayernets are ready to rapidly drive the technical planning and construction of the co2peline. The timeframe for the entire process, however, is heavily dependent on one factor that we alone are not able to influence: the setting up of a clear and reliable legal framework by policymakers. The sooner policymakers create the required "ground rules", the faster the infrastructure can play a contributory role in protecting our climate.

The process from initial idea to commissioning can be split into three phases:

  • Phase 1: Defining boundary conditions (NOW)
    In this decisive phase, the legal fundamentals need to be defined on EU, federal and state levels. Parallel to this, public dialogue and detailed technical planning should take place.
  • Phase 2: Planning and approval (timeframe approx. 3-4 years)
    As soon as the legal framework is set up, the official planning and approval procedure can begin. This is a formalised process that comprises environmental impact assessments and accurate route planning.
  • Phase 3: Construction and commissioning (timeframe approx. 2-3 years)
    Once all approvals have been received, pipeline construction can begin and the network can be commissioned step by step.
     

 

You have CO₂? We have the transport solution

For companies capturing unavoidable CO₂, finding the appropriate transport solution is the next challenge. For large volumes over long distances, a pipeline is the safest and most efficient solution. Are you interested in connecting to our infrastructure? Below you will find answers to the first key questions.

Transport in the planned network is in the liquid phase, enabling safe and energy-efficient operation.

Our network infrastructure is designed to be scalable and extendable from the outset so that we can react flexibly to future requirements.

Specific requirements for the CO₂ composition when transporting in pipelines are defined in the DVGW Code of Practice C260. We are happy to advise you on the details. To the DVGW Code of Practice

Yes. We are specialised in finding the best possible network connection for each individual site. Please contact us to identify a tailored solution for your company.

Contact us now

One potential future solution is using so-called CO₂ hubs. Smaller amounts of CO₂ from various sites can be collected and bundled at these central collection points before being injected into pipeline network.

CREATING KNOWLEDGE TOGETHER

Our partnerships and initiatives

Developing a CO₂ infrastructure is a shared responsibility, which is why we are working closely on national and international levels with all relevant partners along the whole value chain – from industry and storage operators to other network operators and research institutions.

Specific cooperation projects

Together with industrial partners such as Rohrdorfer Zement, RAG Austria and Gas Connect Austria, we are developing the first cross-border CO₂ transport network between Linz and Rohrdorf. We are also part of the “Austro-Bavarian CO2 Export Initiative“, which was established by OMV (Austria's largest energy and chemicals enterprise) to accelerate decarbonisation. The initiative is a project that collaborates jointly with stakeholders such as VoestAlpine and Wien Energie using CCU/S technologies (Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage).

Participation in studies and official regulatory schemes

In order to set up the best technical and legal base possible, we are actively participating in game-changing studies such as the nationwide German study carried out by the DVGW (German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water) on “CO₂ management“. Even more important is our direct involvement in developing and updating the official technical DVGW regulations, which means we can ensure that our practical experience is directly integrated into the highest safety standards for planning, constructing and operating CO₂ pipelines.

 

Additional details about our initiatives

What is the “Austro-Bavarian CO₂ Export Initiative“?
This is an initiative led by OMV (Austria's largest energy and chemicals enterprise) that bundles key industrial stakeholders along the whole value chain. Its goal is to accelerate decarbonisation by jointly developing a cross-border CO₂ infrastructure.

What are the key messages of bayernets' position paper?
In summary, our position paper calls for: 1. Creating investment certainty by setting up clear political boundary conditions. 2. Accelerating planning and approval procedures. 3. Coordinated planning of the entire network on a national level.

The time is right: become part of the solution

The journey from initial planning to commissioning a CO₂ pipeline takes many years – time we no longer have in the light of climate targets. Before specific implementation can begin, it is still necessary to draw up legal and regulatory frameworks, which makes it all the more important for stakeholders to act now.
Do you have any questions, are you interested in becoming a potential partner or do you wish to contribute to the dialogue? We look forward to connecting with you.

 

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