ArcelorMittal Bremen Receives Go-Ahead for Major Eco-Friendly Modernization

ArcelorMittal Bremen, a branch of the global steel giant ArcelorMittal, has been granted the initial and principal partial permit for an extensive environmental modernization by the Bremen Senate for Environment, Climate, and Science, according to the company's press release.

Over the next few years, the company intends to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of its Bremen steel plant, converting blast furnace operations into an integrated electric steel facility. This ambitious transformation necessitates securing multiple permits. The first and primary permit was recently issued by Senator Kathrin Moosdorf.

Kathrin Moosdorf stated, "This approval marks a significant milestone on our journey towards climate-neutral steel production 'Made in Bremen.' It is excellent news, as green steel is essential for achieving our goal of a climate-neutral Bremen by 2038. It also brings positive prospects for the employees at the Bremen steelworks, as well as for the suppliers and other associated businesses. This approval ensures the future viability of the Bremen steelworks."

Dr. Thomas Bünger, CEO of ArcelorMittal Flachstahl Deutschland, remarked, "The shift to climate-neutral steel production is a monumental undertaking made up of numerous smaller steps. Receiving approval to construct and operate the first of two planned electric arc furnaces at our Bremen site marks a crucial step in this transformation journey. The Bremen state government is a vital partner in our efforts, and we are working diligently to make CO2-free steel production in Bremen a reality."

The partial permit encompasses both the construction and operation of the electric arc furnace. The approval process addressed various issues, including emissions (air, light, noise), soil and water protection, health and safety, and workplace safety. Public objections were also considered. No insurmountable obstacles to the construction and operation of the proposed EAF were identified based on the criteria reviewed.

Senator Kathrin Moosdorf commented, "Transforming the Bremen steelworks into a CO2-free production facility is a significant project that we are advancing in partnership with ArcelorMittal. Nearly 30 public bodies participated in the approval process, with input from citizens, and we worked politically to secure substantial funding from the federal government for Bremen's transition to green steel. I am delighted that we were able to expedite this approval process. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved who made this possible."

As one of the region's largest employers, ArcelorMittal Bremen GmbH boasts state-of-the-art facilities capable of producing over 3.6 million tons of crude steel annually. At its Bottrop site, ArcelorMittal Bremen produces 2 million tonnes of coke per year. The coking plant outputs coke, gas, and high-quality coal recyclables. In its 146 coke ovens, coal is heated to 1,100°C in an airtight environment for approximately 24 hours.