Posted on 14 Jul 2025
In the wake of ArcelorMittal’s suspension of its plans to convert two German mills to direct reduced iron-electric arc furnace production, the country’s other blast furnace operators maintain they will keep pursuing their transitions.
The largest player, thyssenkrupp Steel, has just completed several investments into casting, rolling, furnaces and ancillary activities. In this context, it notes the investments are a “clear commitment to transformation” and form “part of the company’s decarbonisation strategy”.
In Saarland, Stahl-Holidng Saar, parent of Dillinger and Saarstahl, confirms to Kallanish it continues the path to CO2-reduced steelmaking. It adds that it does not comment on decisions made by competitors.
Salzgitter notes it does not interpret ArcelorMittal’s recent announcement as a general farewell to the low-emission transition. Salzgitter itself will continue its transition as planned, noting the conversion works have already progressed to a considerable extent. It expects to deliver CO2-reduced steel in the first half of 2027.
In Austria, voestalpine has also retained its 2027 target for production of the first coils under its “greentec steel” brand. By then, it will have started operating EAFs at both its sites in Linz and Donawitz. The company points out strategic differences with its German competitors, in that it has chosen a modular conversion of its mills. Currently, the works are in the first stage of conversion, it adds.
Source:Kallanish
