“Sweden is now the hub of the fossil-free revolution in steel making. What Ovako is accomplishing here today is a crucial step – this is green transition in action, not just words,” Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who inaugurated the plant, stated during his opening speech.
Historically, heating steel has required substantial amounts of fossil fuels. Ovako’s new 20 MW hydrogen plant will generate 3,880 m3 of hydrogen per hour and is the world’s first facility to produce fossil-free hydrogen for heating steel prior to rolling, nearly eliminating emissions at this stage of production. The hydrogen will be used to heat steel at adjacent rolling mills, but also for refueling fuel cell-powered trucks. The excess heat is converted into district heating.
“Today is a proud moment for me and everyone at Ovako. Here, we are showcasing the path to achieving fossil-free industrial high-temperature heat. It’s fantastic to see visitors from all over the world here in Hofors. We look forward to sharing our experiences and assisting other stakeholders in reducing their emissions,” said Marcus Hedblom, President and CEO of the Ovako Group during the inauguration.
Also present at the event were Japan’s Ambassador Masaki Noke and key individuals from Ovako’s partners.
“Thanks to partners such as the Volvo Group, Hitachi Energy, H2 Green Steel, and Nel Hydrogen, the hydrogen plant in Hofors will make a difference from day one,” Marcus Hedblom added.
