Route of two Nord Stream 2 pipelines (green) with locations indicated near Bornholm where damage happened to Line A. (Note: The dotted blue line shows the route of Nord Stream 1 and the locations where its strings were damaged)


StreamTec Solutions has prepared a detailed technical study examining the current condition of the Nord Stream 2 pipelines.

Using publicly available data, we assessed the extent of damage to the Nord Stream 2 infrastructure. Then, using our expertise, we assessed repair options, potential future uses, and regulatory considerations for a change of ownership and/or alternative utilisation of the pipeline system. We have also estimated the duration and the cost of the pipeline repairs.

The Nord Stream 2 project comprises twin subsea pipelines constructed to transport natural gas from Russia to the European Union. Each string has a diameter of 1.2 metres and was designed for an annual capacity of 55 billion cubic metres. Although completed, the system never became operational, and on 26 September 2022, Line A of Nord Stream 2 was severely damaged by explosions within the Danish and Swedish Exclusive Economic Zones. Line B remains intact, while both strings of the first Nord Stream project were also ruptured by similar explosions.

Line A of Nord Stream 2 suffered two ruptures approximately 80 kilometres apart near the island of Bornholm. While these sections are now partially flooded, more than 90% of the pipeline remains filled with natural gas at low pressure. Corrosion levels in the flooded areas are considered minimal, primarily due to the low oxygen content and cold temperatures of the Baltic Sea at that depth - conditions that limit microbial activity and thus reduce the risk of internal corrosion.

Our report concludes that repair of Line A is technically feasible. The necessary equipment, tools, and expertise are readily available in the industry, making restoration a practical alternative to laying new infrastructure. From both a cost and environmental perspective, repairing the existing pipeline would offer significant advantages.

Several repurposing options are also presented in the study. Hydrogen transport is highlighted as a particularly promising use case, as the pipeline material is considered compatible with hydrogen transmission. Another potential application includes using the pipeline for liquefied natural gas (LNG) import via an offshore regasification terminal feeding into the German grid at Lubmin.

Line B, which remains undamaged, could be repurposed without the need for any repairs, offering even quicker implementation of alternative uses. While any change of use would require careful navigation of permitting obligations, we believe these regulatory challenges are manageable.

StreamTec Solutions compiled the report in anticipation of interest from both public and private stakeholders exploring the possibility of reactivating the Nord Stream 2 infrastructure in a new capacity. With extensive in-house experience, including many of the same experts who managed and executed the construction of both Nord Stream projects, we are uniquely positioned to offer valuable insights and support to any future repurposing initiative.

For more information on how to obtain a copy of the detailed technical study, please contact us.

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