ArcelorMittal Poland Commissions Hydrogen Furnaces in Steel Production at Krakow Plant

Hydrogen Furnaces in Steel Production Cut Emissions and Boost Efficiency

ArcelorMittal Poland has officially launched hydrogen furnaces at its Krakow cold rolling plant. The PLN 52 million investment improves product quality, shortens annealing time, and reduces CO₂ emissions by 50%. According to CEO Wojciech Kosuta, the new process eliminates ammonia and significantly reduces environmental impact.

The project is part of a broader PLN 100 million modernization initiative. It includes a new galvanizing method to cut zinc use and improve corrosion resistance. These innovations reflect ArcelorMittal’s long-term strategy to modernize its Polish operations and align with European sustainability standards.

Officials from local government and the Małopolska Province joined the inauguration. Łukasz Smółka, Marshal of the region, emphasized the project’s importance as a model of industrial decarbonization through public-private cooperation.

Next Phase: Local Hydrogen Production for Future Steel Operations

Alongside the Krakow furnace launch, ArcelorMittal Poland has begun building a hydrogen production plant. Set for completion in 2025, the facility will supply green hydrogen to two hot-dip galvanizing lines. The project, carried out with Linde Gaz Polska, adds another PLN 100 million investment to the company’s decarbonization roadmap.

Since 2004, ArcelorMittal has invested over PLN 2.7 billion in the Krakow site, positioning it as a leader in low-emission metallurgy. The move towards hydrogen reflects growing global demand for sustainable steel and the need to meet strict EU climate targets.

Meanwhile, the company is also negotiating with Polish authorities for potential state support of up to PLN 1 billion to modernize its blast furnace in Dąbrowa Górnicza. These talks aim to preserve domestic steel production while transitioning to greener technologies.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

ArcelorMittal Poland’s hydrogen furnace deployment signals a turning point in sustainable steel production. The company’s investment aligns with EU decarbonization goals and growing demand for low-carbon steel. If state-backed modernization efforts proceed, Poland could emerge as a key hub for green steel in Europe.