Sidenor has been part of the initiative financed by the Basque Government, in which it has played a prominent role, responding to the unknowns about the medium-term industrial viability of combustion with renewable hydrogen
The decarbonization of the industry is a priority objective within the strategies of the companies and entities that are part of it, and the steel sector is no exception. This sector seeks to carry out a transition towards a more sustainable activity that is more respectful with the environment and society.
Specifically, it is estimated that 9% of total CO2 emissions into the atmosphere come from the iron and steel sectors. Therefore, the decarbonization of the steel sector represents a great challenge and requires an investment in innovative technologies to achieve the goal of zero emissions by 2050.
In this context, Sidenor has actively participated in the H-Acero project, whose main objective is to contribute to the decarbonization of the sector through the use of hydrogen as an alternative energy source.
For three years, this project has focused on developing advanced technologies and new materials compatible with the production processes of the steel industry, in order to achieve sustainable steel production based on hydrogen.
Four areas of action
The H-Acero project extends into four areas of action. The first focuses on the development of advanced equipment, which is necessary for the implementation of hydrogen in production processes
The second addresses the development of consumables, such as refractories, which must adapt to the new conditions imposed by the use of hydrogen.
The third area focuses on the fuel source itself, that is, the production and supply of hydrogen.
Finally, the fourth area focuses on the production process, with the aim of acquiring the technological knowledge necessary to apply hydrogen in the steel industry.
Hydrogen, a key element to a sustainable activity
The development of green hydrogen, produced from clean energy sources, is considered key to sustainable decarbonization. At the European level, this technology has become a strategic investment. Therefore, the entire value chain of the steel sector must adapt to these new environmental requirements. Equipment suppliers must transform their products to adapt them to clean fuels such as hydrogen, and the consumables of steel plants must adapt to the new conditions of this fuel.
Within the framework of this initiative, Sidenor has played a leading role, seeking to answer the unknowns about the medium-term industrial viability of combustion with renewable hydrogen. This activity is aligned with the company’s decarbonization and sustainable steel manufacturing strategy, which also positions Sidenor with a competitive advantage in the face of the growing demand for more sustainable steels.
After three years of work, the closing event of the H-Acero project was held in May at the SIDEREX offices. During the day, experiences were exchanged and the legacy of innovation and business collaboration around the decarbonization of the steel sector, using hydrogen as an alternative energy source, was highlighted.
The project has been financed by the Basque Government, within the framework of the HAZITEK aid program to support the implementation of Industrial Research Projects. In addition, it has had co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), underlining the commitment and institutional support to move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly steel industry.