Advancing Latvia’s Energy Security through Hydrogen.
As energy challenges grow increasingly complex, nations worldwide are prioritizing self-sufficiency and sustainability to secure their energy futures. At Sidara, we have a deep understanding of the role that hydrogen can play in advancing an energy-secure future.
As a world leader in hydrogen and carbon capture, Penspen is leading an ambitious initiative to repurpose existing gas infrastructure for hydrogen integration in Latvia. This project not only highlights the potential of hydrogen as a cleaner energy source but also reinforces Latvia’s commitment to reducing reliance on energy imports.
The collaboration with Conexus Baltic Grid, Latvia’s natural gas operator, demonstrates how innovative solutions can address the dual goals of decarbonization and energy security. By evaluating the feasibility of blending hydrogen with natural gas in existing pipelines, this project demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to energy management.
Repurposing infrastructure for energy independence
For this project, Penspen is providing Conexus with a comprehensive assessment of the existing natural gas pipeline network to determine its feasibility for hydrogen blending.
Penspen’s team is leveraging its experience and expertise by conducting detailed analyses to evaluate the impact of hydrogen on pipeline materials—including the potential interactions with existing defects and how they may affect structural integrity.
Furthermore, the project involves a review of national and international codes and regulations to ensure that all methodologies align with industry standards for safety and reliability. Based on these findings, Penspen will provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or modifications to facilitate the safe integration of hydrogen into the system.
This work lays the groundwork for Latvia to repurpose its infrastructure for cleaner energy while advancing its energy security and sustainability goals.
Planning for a secure energy future
The initiative in Latvia reflects a broader trend among nations seeking to optimize existing energy systems to adapt to a changing global landscape. Repurposing gas pipelines for hydrogen transport offers a practical pathway to sustainability without the immediate need for extensive new infrastructure investments.
For Latvia, this approach not only accelerates its transition to cleaner energy but also strengthens its resilience in the face of economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
For countries looking for energy solutions worldwide, this project provides a glimpse at hydrogen’s versatility and adaptability to existing energy systems, making it an essential component of global energy strategies.
Blending hydrogen with natural gas allows for gradual adoption, providing nations like Latvia with an efficient way to enhance energy self-sufficiency.
A Blueprint for Global Collaboration
The partnership between Penspen and Conexus Baltic Grid is a blueprint for how nations can address energy challenges through collaboration and innovation. Penspen’s work extends beyond technical expertise—it represents our overall commitment to supporting global energy security through adaptable and forward-looking solutions.
Right now, this project is slated for completion in early 2025. Overall, this project connects to Latvia's strategic goals within the general picture of global decarbonization. Indeed, it reinforces the wider mission driving Sidara: enabling communities worldwide to finally have access to reliable, modern, sustainable energy options.
Ultimately, this project has also demonstrated that when such a number of countries face different challenges from both energy demand and climate change, it is easy to obtain a clear direction on how cleaner energy sources fit into systems.
This project demonstrates Sidara’s ongoing commitment to empowering nations with what they need to secure a sustainable and resilient energy future.