ArcelorMittal Olaberria launches a pilot project to use green hydrogen

The global mining and metals company ArcelorMittal has launched a pilot project at its plant in Olaberry (Spain) by introducing a green hydrogen combustion system in the rolling mill furnaces. This is the first solution of its kind in Europe that allows the equipment to run on 100% hydrogen without the use of natural gas, completely eliminating CO2 emissions during the steel heating process, Sarralle said in a press release.

The technology was developed and installed by the Spanish company Sarralle in cooperation with Nippon Gases. The system replaces traditional gas burners with hydrogen burners based on the oxygen-fuel principle, which increases heating efficiency and ensures the environmental friendliness of the process. The only combustion product is water vapor.

Given that reheating furnaces are among the most energy-intensive processes in steelmaking, the new technology is of strategic importance. Such units consume up to 80% of the plant’s total fuel, so converting them to hydrogen can radically reduce their carbon footprint. This is especially important for the steel industry, which is currently responsible for about 9% of global CO2 emissions.

«This project is a key step into the future of the steel industry. It proves that green hydrogen technology is ready for use and can ensure the complete decarbonization of energy-intensive processes,» said Itaso Ausmendi-Murua, Head of Hydrogen at Sarralle.

As a reminder, in the first half of 2025, ArcelorMittal increased steel production by 0.3% compared to the same period in 2024, to 29.2 million tons. Steel shipments to customers amounted to 27.4 million tons (+0.4% y/y). The company’s net profit for the period increased by 80.2% y/y – to $2.598 billion. EBITDA decreased by 9.9% y/y – to $3.440 billion. Operating income amounted to $2.757 billion, up 30.2% y/y.