How organizations can achieve their decarbonization goals through use of Green steel

Green steel, also known as low-carbon steel or sustainable steel, is produced through a process that emits little to no carbon dioxide (CO2) during production. Traditional steelmaking processes rely heavily on coal and coke, which releases significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. However, green steel is made using clean energy sources like renewable electricity and hydrogen, making it a viable solution for companies looking to decarbonize.

One method of producing green steel involves using hydrogen instead of coal or coke to reduce iron ore into iron. This process, known as direct reduction, emits only water vapor instead of CO2. The hydrogen required for this process can be produced using renewable electricity through electrolysis, making the entire process carbon-free.

Another approach to green steel production involves the use of electric arc furnaces, which melt down scrap metal using electricity instead of coal. This method also relies on renewable electricity to minimize emissions.

Several companies around the world are investing in the development of green steel technology. Some examples include:

• SSAB, LKAB, and Vattenfall (Sweden) – These three companies have collaborated on the HYBRIT project, which aims to replace coking coal with green hydrogen in the steelmaking process. The pilot plant began operations in August 2020, with a goal to have demonstration completed by 2035.
• ArcelorMittal (Europe) – ArcelorMittal is currently working on several green steel projects across Europe. In Bremen, Germany, the company plans to inject green hydrogen into the blast furnace, while the IGAR project in France is developing a hybrid blast furnace process using direct reduced iron (DRI) gas injection and a plasma torch.
• Tata Steel (India) – Tata Steel has set a goal to become a carbon-neutral company by 2050 and is exploring various methods of green steel production, including hydrogen reduction and electric arc furnaces.

Here is a table summarizing some of the companies investing in green steel production:

In conclusion, green steel production is an important step towards achieving global decarbonization goals. With the growing focus on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, it is likely that more companies will invest in green steel technology in the coming years.