Fortum explores prerequisites for fossil-free hydrogen production at SSAB’s site in Raahe
Fortum and the steel company SSAB are launching a joint commercial feasibility study and technical FEED (Front End Engineering Design) study to explore the possibilities of producing hydrogen-reduced fossil-free sponge iron in Raahe, Finland.
In line with its strategy, Fortum wants to drive the development of a hydrogen economy in the Nordics together with its customers and partners. The study is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of 2024.
The now-launched study is a continuation of the ongoing joint research project “FFS – Towards Fossil-free Steel”, which began in 2021 and has the support of Business Finland. Fortum is responsible for the hydrogen study in this project.
Fortum will study the technical and commercial feasibility of a hydrogen production plant with a maximum capacity of 700 megawatts. The study will also cover such questions as partnering and financial structures, as well as operations and safety. An environmental impact assessment process related to the production of hydrogen will also be launched during the study.
Large-scale use of hydrogen in industry is still at an early stage of development and therefore new projects will require wide-ranging research and cross-sectoral cooperation. The study results will be used as a basis for possible investment decisions at a later stage.
Fortum has a strong position in clean energy production, and we strive to find solutions to help our industrial customers decarbonise their operations. We want to drive the development of clean hydrogen in the Nordics together with our customers. We are actively exploring hydrogen concepts and business opportunities together with companies in multiple sectors, including pulp and paper, steel, chemical and transport.