World Economic Forum recognises Hydnum plant among top decarbonisation projects

Spain’s Hydnum Steel (HS) has been acknowledged by the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) First Movers Coalition as one of the top five most innovative projects worldwide in the steel industry’s race towards a more responsible and efficient steel industry.

This recognition is aligned with key themes emphasised at this year’s WEF meeting, such as sustainability, digitalisation, and the principles of a circular economy, Kallanish notes.

During the summit in Davos, Siemens chief executive Roland Busch highlighted the value of the digitalisation that will be integrated into all phases of the Puertollano’s first “green” steel mill on the Iberian Peninsula. HS and Siemens, partners in the project, have opted for an innovative concept. After passing the technological definition phase, the basis of the project has been established in integrating the use of the Digital Twin in all the production stages, from the design to the complete start-up of the facility.

This innovation will enable real-time optimisation of energy consumption, resources and working conditions for operators, maximising efficiency and significantly reducing environmental impact.

“This will be not just a plant, it is a commitment to the future,” says HS chief executive Eva Maneiro. The ceo emphasises the integration of digitalisation, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and water conservation as transformative elements in redefining steel production standards.

“We will produce steel that will contribute to Europe’s energy independence and create purposeful jobs for our youth. Steel revolutionised the industry, and now it’s time for the industry to revolutionise how steel is produced,” Maneiro adds.

The Puertollano “green” steel mill project is designed to use fossil-free energy throughout the manufacturing process. It will gradually incorporate green hydrogen to substantially reduce CO2 emissions. The plant will have a production capacity of up to 2.6 million tonnes/year of flat steel.

The project is valued at €1.65 billion ($1.72 billion) and will create more than 1,000 direct jobs. The plant, occupying an area of 1.3 million square metres, is expected to be operational in 2026.

Todor Kirkov Bulgaria

Photo: Aceria tradicional. Archivo EFE/Mark Earthy.

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