IEA Hydrogen Task 52: Hydrogen for Iron/Steelmaking

With the aim of replacing fossil fuels in steel production, this task investigates the use of hydrogen for climate-neutral iron and steel production. The state of the art of existing and new processes is recorded, evaluated and compared. Based on this, technological, infrastructural and market-related findings are prepared and published for research, industry and politics.

Short Description

The international IEA Task "Hydrogen for Iron/Steelmaking (Green Steel)" investigates the use of hydrogen to reduce CO₂ emissions in iron and steel production. The objective is to identify the technological, economic, and environmental prerequisites for climate-neutral steelmaking and to outline pathways for the large-scale deployment of hydrogen-based processes. In doing so, the Task aims to make a significant contribution to the decarbonisation of the global steel industry.

The task is structured into three thematic areas (Subtasks):

Subtask A Technology Mapping and Readiness
Subtask B Hydrogen-Based Iron and Steel Supply Chain and Infrastructure
Subtask C Global Transformation Pathways, Competitiveness

Austria contributes its expertise in the development of hydrogen-based reduction processes and works on the evaluation of technological options, the development of market integration scenarios, and the linkage with European initiatives.

The project strengthens international research capacity by establishing an interdisciplinary network focused on the key aspects of green steel. Close collaboration between research, industry, and policy aims to accelerate knowledge transfer and innovation in hydrogen-based steelmaking. The three Subtasks provide a framework for the exchange of information on emerging technologies, supply chains, market readiness, and policy mechanisms.

The insights, tools, and recommendations generated through this Task will support the global transition to climate-neutral steel production. The results are expected to inform the development of technology roadmaps, policy strategies, and investment decisions, thereby promoting the faster adoption of sustainable production methods. Given the steel sector's high share of global emissions, the Task makes an essential contribution to achieving climate goals and fosters international collaboration on the path toward a low-carbon industry.

Participants

Australia (Operating Agent), Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Austria, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United States of America

Contact Address

Project leader

Mag.^a Eva Maria Rechberger
WIVA P&G
Magazingasse 7, 4020, Linz
E-Mail: rechberger@wiva.at

Melanie Nagy, MA
WIVA P&G
Magazingasse 7, 4020, Linz
E-Mail: nagy@wiva.at

Project partners

DI Christa Mühlegger
K1-MET
Stahlstraße 14
Betriebsgebäude (BG) 88, 4020 Linz
E-Mail: christa.muehlegger@k1-met.com

Amaia Sasiain Conde
Project Manager Experienced in Area 2
Standort: K1-MET Linz
Tel.: +43 732 6989 6773
Mobil: +43 664 88 89 91 21
E-Mail: amaia.sasiain@k1-met.com