Green Steel denotes the manufacturing of steel without using fossil fuels. In this process, low-carbon energy sources like hydrogen, coal gasification or electricity replace the conventional carbon-intensive manufacturing route from coal-fired plants. The purpose is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut costs, and improve the quality of the resultant steel.
The Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project and Green Steel
In a move towards Green Steel production, India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas launched the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project in Eastern India in 2019. This initiative aimed at providing gas supply to all steel plants located across the region. It indicates the government’s vision of transitioning the steel sector in Eastern India towards cleaner and greener operations.
Understanding Various Types of Hydrogen
Hydrogen comes in multiple forms – green, brown, grey, and blue. Green hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy, resulting in lower carbon footprints. Brown hydrogen is generated using coal and releases emissions into the air. Grey hydrogen, derived from natural gas, also releases associated emissions into the air. Blue hydrogen, however, is obtained from natural gas, capturing emissions using carbon capture and storage.
Challenges and Cost Implications of Green Steel
While the concept and goals of Green Steel are commendable, the execution faces significant challenges. One major issue is the cost implications. Currently, the iron and steel sector in India is financially weak and the high cost involved in Green Steel manufacturing can pose further difficulties.
National Hydrogen Energy Mission and its Role in Green Steel
The National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHM) of India focuses on utilizing hydrogen as an alternative, cleaner fuel option. This mission plays a pivotal role in promoting Green Steel since it emphasizes low-carbon hydrogen (blue hydrogen, and green hydrogen) as a means to reduce the steel industry’s carbon footprint.
The Current Status of Steel Production in India: Insights and Statistics
India holds the title of being the world’s 2nd largest producer of crude steel with a production of 120 million tonnes during the fiscal year 2021- 2022. Over 80 per cent of the country’s reserves are concentrated in Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and the northern regions of Andhra Pradesh. In 2021, India was also the second-largest consumer of finished steel (106.23 MT), only preceded by China.
Strategizing the Transition towards Green Steel: The Way Forward
Navigating the way forward involves adopting cost-effective technologies and refurbishing outdated plants. Aspects like energy efficiency in electricity-based manufacturing and recycling infrastructures need significant investment. The government and public sector should increase their demand for environmentally sustainable green steel. Both private and public sectors also need to establish green standards and labels to promote the market growth of green steel. Facilities that have reached the end of their lifespan and cause pollution should be phased out.
Pollution Concerns Associated with the Steel Industry
The steel industry is one of the major contributors to pollution as it relies on coal and iron ore whose combustion releases various harmful compounds into the environment. The released pollutants include Carbon Monoxide (CO), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Oxides of Sulfur (SOx), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx). Technological interventions such as air filters, water filters and power-saving measures can help reduce emissions.
