Tata Steel to run IJmuiden steelworks on hydrogen

Tata Steel, the leading steelmaker, plans to use hydrogen at its steelworks in IJmuiden, the Netherland.

Tata Steel has confirmed that pursuing the hydrogen route in IJmuiden will start a detailed assessment for this purpose. The plan involves introducing direct reduced iron (DRI) technology, producing iron using natural gas or hydrogen before it is converted to steel in one or more electric furnaces to be installed in the future.

Tata has already stated its ambition in IJmuiden to reduce CO2 emissions by 5 million tonnes/year by 2030 and has been exploring various technological options to achieve this, including carbon capture and storage (CCS) or a hydrogen route. According to a joint study conducted by Tata Steel and FNV, the Dutch trade union, both CCS and hydrogen routes are technically viable.

Tata Steel will start discussions with all relevant stakeholders to develop the hydrogen route. The ongoing feasibility study will also be used to develop the DRI technology further, covering aspects such as economic evaluation, employment, the consequences of the impact on other emissions, such as NOx, odour, dust and noise.

Meanwhile, Tata Steel will continue its commitment to reduce nuisance to the environment through its ‘Roadmap Plus’ programme in IJmuiden.

T. Narendran, CEO of Tata Steel, said, “The decarbonisation pathway in IJmuiden will also help us chart the future transition roadmap of Tata Steel’s other integrated steel-making sites.”

Hans van den Berg, chairman of the Board of Management of Tata Steel Netherlands, said, “As a result of our choice for hydrogen, we will work closely together with local and national authorities and our direct neighbours to become a green steel manufacturer in a clean environment.”