[SMM Steel] EU carbon prices stay at €74-77/t in early May

【SMM Steel】Tata Steel IJmuiden has signed a cooperation agreement with low-carbon cement technology company Ecocem to develop new applications for steelmaking slag in cement and concrete production, targeting lower CO₂ emissions and greater circularity in construction. The companies have signed an MoU. Unlike widely used blast furnace slag, these materials are currently underutilized. By replacing clinker—the most carbon-intensive ingredient in cement—these slag-based materials can significantly cut emissions while creating value from industrial by-products. The partnership supports Tata Steel's Groen Staal decarbonization program and expands sustainable material options for the construction industry.

【SMM Steel】German industrial services provider Bilfinger SE has secured a contract to deliver steelwork, piping systems, and component assembly for EWE's 320 MW hydrogen plant in Emden. The scope includes detailed engineering, delivery, installation, and commissioning, with several kilometers of piping to connect plant sections and integration of auxiliary technical facilities. Construction of the electrolyzer began in Nov 2025. The facility, part of the "Clean Hydrogen Coastline" project, is scheduled to start operations in late 2027. The initiative includes hydrogen storage in Huntorf and gas network upgrades in Lower Saxony, forming an integrated system for production, storage, transport, and use of green hydrogen.

【SMM Steel】SSAB's conversion of its Oxelösund mill to fossil-free steel production has been delayed due to permitting appeals linked to species protection, affecting the required power line. Vattenfall Eldistribution confirmed the delay, impacting the planned early 2027 start-up. SSAB stated that Sweden's permitting and grid connection processes create uncertainty for industrial electrification projects. SSAB's CEO criticized Sweden's permit and grid approval procedures, emphasizing the EU considers steel a strategic sector. The company will provide updates once the delay timeline is clearer. The postponement is not expected to affect SSAB's 2026 results or customer deliveries. Upon completion, the project is expected to cut Sweden's CO₂ emissions by about 3%.