German mining and metals company Stahlwerk Thueringen GmbH, in collaboration with gas network operator Ferngas Netzgesellschaft mbH, is set to revolutionize the steel industry.
This partnership aims to connect a prominent steel plant in the Thuringia state of Germany to the nation’s ambitious hydrogen network, propelling the industry towards a greener era.
The visionary collaboration between Stahlwerk Thueringen and Ferngas entails the establishment of a robust hydrogen infrastructure to supply the steel plant with this clean energy source. At the heart of this endeavor lies the conversion of an existing 70-kilometer natural gas pipeline, stretching from Erfurt to Unterwellenborn, where the steel plant is strategically situated. This transformation represents more than just a technological advancement—it embodies a paradigm shift towards a sustainable future for steel production.
With an unwavering commitment to decarbonization, Stahlwerk Thueringen has already incorporated renewable electricity into its operations. The introduction of green hydrogen through the network infrastructure takes this commitment to an entirely new level. The hydrogen, supplied via pipeline, will progressively replace the reliance on natural gas in the plant’s production processes. In an initial phase, hydrogen is projected to constitute over 50% of the natural gas volume, with its share expected to grow steadily over time.
Alexander Stolze, the head of procurement at Stahlwerk Thueringen, highlighted the profound implications of this collaboration. “Connecting to the hydrogen network will preserve our competitiveness and strengthen Stahlwerk Thueringen as a hub for low-emission steel production,” Stolze emphasized. This sentiment underscores the transformative potential of this endeavor, not only for the company but for the steel industry as a whole.
Stahlwerk Thueringen, a part of Brazil’s CSN Group since 2012, stands at the forefront of innovation, exemplifying the harmony between industrial prowess and environmental responsibility. By embracing green hydrogen as a pivotal energy source, the company is trailblazing a path towards a more sustainable future, aligning with Germany’s broader vision of a carbon-neutral economy.
