Low CO2 steel production in Salzgitter
The SALCOS® transformation program aims to achieve near CO2-free steel production and will be implemented in three stages. The first stage is scheduled to go into operation at the end of 2025 and comprises a direct reduction plant, an electric arc furnace and a 100 MW electrolysis plant for hydrogen production. This direct reduction plant is based on the innovative “Energiron ZR® Direct Reduction” technology, which can be operated flexibly with hydrogen and gas.
The conversion of steel production at the Salzgitter site is to be completed by 2033. A recently signed preliminary agreement between Salzgitter and Uniper stipulates that Uniper will supply up to 20,000 tons of green hydrogen annually from 2028. This hydrogen will be produced in Uniper’s planned large-scale electrolysis plant in Wilhelmshaven.