ArcelorMittal Advances Hydrogen Furnaces in Kraków Amid Green Investment Freeze
Key Ideas
- ArcelorMittal in Kraków is commissioning hydrogen furnaces to reduce CO2 emissions by 50%, despite pausing green hydrogen-ready DRI projects due to slow policy progress.
- The company aims to decarbonise steel production by installing hydrogen-ready annealing furnaces, marking a significant technological advancement and reducing environmental impact.
- ArcelorMittal's initiative includes collaboration with Linde to build a hydrogen production plant, showcasing commitment to sustainable operations and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
- With steel production accounting for 8% of global CO2 emissions and a pressing need for cleaner processes, the adoption of hydrogen technology could be crucial in achieving sustainable steel production.
ArcelorMittal is moving forward with the commissioning of hydrogen furnaces at its Kraków plant in Poland, representing an investment of PLN 52m ($12.6m). Despite postponing financial decisions on green hydrogen-ready direct reduced iron (DRI) projects due to unfavorable policy progress in Europe, the company is focusing on reducing CO2 emissions by 50% through the installation of hydrogen-ready annealing furnaces. The new furnaces will operate with a 100% hydrogen atmosphere, replacing older installations and showcasing a technological leap within the industry. Additionally, ArcelorMittal plans to construct a hydrogen production plant in Kraków in partnership with Linde, further emphasizing its commitment to decarbonisation. Steel production is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, and the adoption of hydrogen technology in steelmaking processes could play a vital role in achieving sustainability goals. Despite facing challenges in project development, ArcelorMittal remains dedicated to implementing cleaner and more efficient practices in its operations, aiming to reduce environmental impact and contribute to a greener future for the steel industry.