ArcelorMittal France has commissioned the Westfalen Group to build an electrolyzer for green hydrogen production.
This project, set to start operations in January 2026, will supply green hydrogen to ArcelorMittal’s plant in Florange, north-east France.
Since 2010, Westfalen France has supplied fossil hydrogen to ArcelorMittal’s Florange steelworks. The shift to green hydrogen, produced by a new electrolyser on the plant site, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. This transition aligns with global efforts to decarbonize the steel industry, but the project’s success depends on various factors, including the efficiency and reliability of the electrolyser technology and the availability of renewable energy sources.
Westfalen plans to invest tens of millions of euros in the project, which includes not only hydrogen production but also the construction of a hydrogen filling station nearby for trailer and cylinder filling. This investment underscores the financial commitment required to develop green hydrogen infrastructure. However, it raises questions about the scalability and economic viability of such projects, especially in comparison to other low-carbon hydrogen production methods.
The hydrogen industry has seen numerous initiatives worldwide, with varying degrees of success. For instance, projects in Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States have demonstrated significant advancements in green hydrogen production and utilization. Comparing ArcelorMittal’s project to these benchmarks can provide insights into its potential impact and highlight areas for improvement.
While the long-term supply contract suggests a stable and ongoing collaboration, the sustainability of such projects requires continuous innovation, efficiency improvements, and adherence to environmental standards.
