Novelis Initiates Hydrogen Burning Trials in UK Aluminum Plant

Novelis, a leading aluminum solutions provider, takes a significant leap towards decarbonization as its Latchford plant in the UK secures £4.6 million funding for hydrogen burning trials.

This initiative is part of the UK Government’s £55 million Industrial Fuel Switching Competition, within the £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP), and aligns with the regional HyNet project. The trials aim to test the use of hydrogen as a direct replacement for natural gas in the aluminum recycling process, potentially achieving up to 90 percent reduction in CO2eq emissions. As Novelis pioneers these trials in collaboration with Progressive Energy, the impact on the aluminum industry and the broader sustainability goals become increasingly evident.

The primary goal of Novelis’ hydrogen burning trials is to explore and implement greener alternatives for the aluminum industry. By replacing natural gas with hydrogen in the aluminum recycling process, the company seeks to significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to the UK’s ambitious net-zero targets.

Novelis plans to utilize hydrogen as a direct replacement for natural gas in the recycling furnaces at its Latchford plant. This process, known as hydrogen burning, involves replacing existing burners and regenerators with units capable of using either pure hydrogen or a blend of hydrogen and natural gas. Additionally, the furnace lining material will be replaced to accommodate the use of hydrogen as a fuel.

If successful, the hydrogen burning trials at Novelis’ Latchford plant could lead to a substantial reduction in CO2eq emissions. By harnessing hydrogen’s clean-burning properties, the company aims to achieve up to a remarkable 90 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to using the equivalent amount of natural gas.

The collaboration between Novelis and Progressive Energy exemplifies the importance of partnerships in driving sustainability initiatives. By working together, industry players can leverage their expertise and resources to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean fuel, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.