SSAB and Vattenfall Advance HYBRIT Collaboration with Groundbreaking Fossil-Free Infrastructure Project

SSAB and Vattenfall Advance HYBRIT Collaboration with Groundbreaking Fossil-Free Infrastructure Project

(IN BRIEF) SSAB has signed an agreement with Vattenfall to supply 120 tonnes of fossil-free steel for the world’s first large-scale dam gate produced with near-zero carbon emissions. The steel, derived from fossil-free sponge iron developed through the HYBRIT initiative by SSAB, Vattenfall, and LKAB, represents a breakthrough in sustainable manufacturing. Measuring 21 by 11 meters, the dam gate will showcase how low-emission steel can support major infrastructure projects. SSAB’s Vice President of Sustainability, Thomas Hörnfeldt, and Vattenfall’s Nordic hydropower CEO, Lovisa Fricot Norén, both highlighted the collaboration as a pivotal step toward achieving carbon neutrality and demonstrating the feasibility of fossil-free industrial production.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 28-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — SSAB has entered into a landmark agreement with Vattenfall to supply 120 tonnes of fossil-free steel for the construction of the world’s first and largest dam gate made with near-zero fossil carbon dioxide emissions from the ironmaking process. Measuring 21 meters in width and 11 meters in height, the structure will stand as a milestone in sustainable infrastructure, showcasing how SSAB’s breakthrough fossil-free steel technology can be applied to large-scale industrial and energy projects.

The steel used in this project is produced from fossil-free sponge iron, developed through the HYBRIT initiative — a joint effort by SSAB, Vattenfall, and LKAB aimed at revolutionizing the steel industry by replacing coal-based production with hydrogen-based technology. This pilot delivery marks a significant advancement in the commercial application of fossil-free steel and sets a precedent for climate-conscious construction worldwide.

“This is an important step in our shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions,” said Thomas Hörnfeldt, Vice President of Sustainability at SSAB. “Through forward-thinking collaboration with partners like Vattenfall, we are continuing to lead the green transformation of the steel industry. The HYBRIT project demonstrates what’s possible when innovation and sustainability go hand in hand across the entire value chain.”

For Vattenfall, the partnership represents a critical move toward achieving its long-term sustainability objectives. Lovisa Fricot Norén, CEO of Vattenfall’s Nordic hydropower operations, emphasized the significance of the project: “Vattenfall and SSAB are taking a major leap forward in developing fossil-free value chains and components. Our goal is net-zero emissions by 2040, and this project also plays a vital role in ensuring the longevity of fossil-free hydropower for generations to come.”

The dam gate, manufactured entirely with SSAB’s fossil-free steel, will serve as tangible proof that large, complex components can be produced with minimal environmental impact. Beyond demonstrating the potential for emission-free steel in heavy infrastructure, the project reinforces SSAB’s position as a global leader in sustainable materials and a key player in advancing the transition toward a fossil-free society.

For further information, please contact:
Charlotte Lindevall, Head of External Communications, charlotte.lindevall@ssab.com, phone: +46 703 44 59 73

SOURCE: SSAB