As the clean hydrogen economy expands, the development of dedicated hydrogen pipeline infrastructure becomes critical for transporting hydrogen safely and efficiently from production sites to end users. Investing in companies involved in building, operating, or supplying equipment for hydrogen pipelines offers exposure to a foundational component of the emerging hydrogen supply chain.
Why invest in hydrogen pipeline infrastructure?
- Decarbonization demand: Hydrogen transport supports industries, power generation, and heavy transport seeking to reduce emissions.
- Infrastructure gap: Existing natural gas pipelines require adaptation or new pipelines are needed for pure hydrogen delivery.
- Government support: Policies and funding initiatives accelerate hydrogen infrastructure deployment.
- Long-term growth: Hydrogen economy projections foresee exponential growth in pipeline networks over decades.
Leading publicly traded companies with hydrogen pipeline exposure
1. Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE: KMI)
- Operates extensive natural gas pipeline network; exploring hydrogen blending and dedicated hydrogen pipeline projects.
- Investing in pilot projects to assess hydrogen transport viability.
2. Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE: WMB)
- Major U.S. natural gas pipeline operator developing hydrogen-ready infrastructure.
- Engaged in partnerships to retrofit and build hydrogen pipelines.
3. TC Energy Corporation (TSX: TRP / NYSE: TRP)
- North American pipeline leader pursuing hydrogen and renewable natural gas integration into pipeline systems.
- Developing plans for hydrogen hubs and network expansions.
4. Enbridge Inc. (TSX: ENB / NYSE: ENB)
- Invests in renewable natural gas and hydrogen projects, including pipeline adaptations.
- Supports hydrogen blending in existing infrastructure.
5. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE: APD)
- Leading hydrogen producer involved in developing hydrogen pipeline networks globally.
- Provides compression and purification equipment essential for pipeline operations.
6. Parker-Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH)
- Supplies valves, fittings, and control systems for hydrogen pipeline infrastructure.
- Innovates components designed for high-purity hydrogen transport.
Emerging hydrogen pipeline-focused companies
- HydrogenOne Capital Growth plc (LSE: HYDG): Investment fund focused on hydrogen infrastructure and tech.
- Private developers building regional hydrogen pipelines in Europe and Asia.
ETFs with hydrogen and infrastructure exposure
- Global X Hydrogen ETF (NASDAQ: HYDR)
- L&G Hydrogen Economy UCITS ETF (LSE: HTWO)
- iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: ICLN) (partial exposure)
Investment considerations
- Regulatory landscape: Hydrogen pipeline standards and safety regulations are evolving.
- Technology adaptation: Materials and leak detection technologies critical for pipeline integrity.
- Capital intensity: Infrastructure projects require large investments and long development cycles.
- Market demand: Growth tied to hydrogen production capacity and end-use adoption.
Investing in clean hydrogen pipeline infrastructure stocks provides exposure to a vital link in the hydrogen supply chain. Companies combining extensive pipeline experience, technology innovation, and strategic positioning in the energy transition are best placed to benefit from the rapid expansion of hydrogen networks globally.