thyssenkrupp Steel Launches Tender for Hydrogen Supply in Decarbonization Drive

thyssenkrupp Steel

(IN BRIEF) thyssenkrupp Steel has initiated a call for tenders to supply hydrogen to its first direct reduction plant as part of the tkH2Steel decarbonization project. The project aims to transition to 100% hydrogen operation by 2029, with hydrogen use beginning in 2028. Approximately 143,000 metric tons of hydrogen are required annually. The initiative, supported by government funding, is expected to save up to 3.5 million metric tons of CO2 per year. The tender process, divided into three phases, invites potential hydrogen suppliers capable of delivering to Duisburg. This move underscores thyssenkrupp Steel’s commitment to decarbonization and contributes to the development of a hydrogen-based economy in Germany.

(PRESS RELEASE) DUISBURG, 16-Feb-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — thyssenkrupp (ETR: TKA), a German multinational industrial engineering and steel production conglomerate, has marked a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable steel production by initiating a call for tenders to supply hydrogen to its first direct reduction plant. As a pivotal element of the tkH2Steel project, this move underscores the company’s commitment to decarbonization. The tender process, conducted in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, aims to transition the direct reduction plant to operate entirely on hydrogen by 2029. With funding from the government and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, the project represents a vital step towards a hydrogen-based economy in Germany.

Key Role in Decarbonization and Hydrogen Economy Build-Up

Integrating the direct reduction plant and melters into Europe’s largest iron and steel plant, thyssenkrupp Steel’s project is poised to revolutionize steel production. The plant, capable of utilizing 100% hydrogen, is slated to commence hydrogen use in 2028, with full hydrogen operation expected by 2029. By requiring approximately 143,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually, the initiative is projected to save up to 3.5 million metric tons of CO2 per year, positioning thyssenkrupp Steel as a frontrunner in decarbonization efforts.

Promoting Transparency and Collaboration in Hydrogen Supply

The call for tenders, initiated in December, will progress through three phases and targets potential hydrogen suppliers capable of delivering to Duisburg. Suppliers offering renewable green or CO2-reduced blue hydrogen are invited to participate.

Dr. Arnd Köfler, Chief Technology Officer at thyssenkrupp Steel, emphasized the strategic importance of this step, stating, “We are delighted to be taking another significant step forward on our transformation path with this call for tenders. With the call for tenders, we are sending a clear signal for scaling up the European hydrogen economy and the necessary infrastructure. This step will give our customers greater planning security when purchasing climate-friendly steel produced with hydrogen, and consequently enable them to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their own production. In doing this, we are making an important contribution toward achieving the climate targets in Germany and Europe.”

Media contact:

Roswitha Becker
Public-/Media Relations
Telephone:+49 203 52 – 44916

SOURCE: thyssenkrupp Steel Europe AG