The expected construction volume for this transformation amounts to around €20 billion by 2030, of which around €9 billion is to be invested in hydrogen technology. These measures will lead to a significant increase in construction investment and secure jobs in the construction industry. Extensive construction work is required to adapt the existing gas infrastructure to the requirements of the hydrogen economy. This includes the construction of new pipelines, storage facilities and distribution centres. PORR, a leading construction company in Germany, recognised the importance of the necessary construction projects in hydrogen technology at an early stage and is using innovative processes for sustainable implementation.

Transformation: examples of construction projects

Direct reduction plant at thyssenkrupp Steel

An outstanding example is the direct reduction plant for thyssenkrupp Steel in Duisburg. Instead of using coke in traditional blast furnaces, hydrogen will be used as a reducing agent in the production of pig iron in a direct reduction plant. The plant is scheduled for completion by 2027 and will enable savings of up to 3.5 million tonnes of CO₂ per year. The process is more environmentally friendly and massively reduces CO₂ emissions compared to conventional blast furnaces.

PORR Spezialtiefbau is carrying out the special civil engineering work for this project as part of a joint venture. This includes pile foundations with Frankipiles, the construction of a watertight excavation pit enclosure and the installation of concrete walls to stabilise the subsoil. These measures ensure the structural quality and contribute to the longevity of the plant.

Hanseatic Energy Hub in Stade

Another key project is the Hanseatic Energy Hub in Stade, northern Germany. Groundbreaking for Germany's first land-based terminal for liquefied gases took place in summer 2024. The emission-free LNG terminal, which will also be able to handle bio-LNG and synthetic natural gas (SNG), is scheduled to go into operation in 2027. The planned regasification capacity is more than 13 billion cubic metres per year. With the development of new climate-neutral energy sources, the hub will also enable the import of hydrogen-based energy carriers and thus become part of the future network structure for hydrogen.

Innovative processes – environmentally friendly construction

Sustainability plays a central role in the construction of these projects. The use of PORR Spezialtiefbau's ‘Greenpile’ piles significantly reduces noise emissions and, in particular, the CO₂ footprint during production. As no drill cuttings are produced during soil displacement, there is no need for additional transport or external recycling. The slim displacement piles save concrete compared to alternative pile systems and thus conserve resources. To ensure environmental protection, the flushing water from the concrete mixers is collected and treated. Noise and vibration levels must be measured in advance to protect wildlife in the Elbe. In dry conditions, the working level is watered to prevent dust.

The construction industry plays a crucial role in the transition to a hydrogen economy. Thanks to its early focus on the potential of construction and its innovative strength, PORR has taken a leading role in this transformation. The construction industry in this market segment faces a future in which environmentally friendly construction projects will continue to grow and the importance of sustainable infrastructure measures will increase in the long term. Investments in the hydrogen economy therefore not only create economic opportunities, but also make a significant contribution to climate protection.