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TMK partners with energy companies to jointly develop hydrogen economy

TMK has invited energy players and other industries in Russia to cooperate in driving hydrogen energy development in the country. This was announced by Sergey Chikalov, TMK’s Deputy CEO for Technological Development and Technical Sales, at the National Oil and Gas Forum held as part of the NEFTEGAZ 2021 international exhibition.

Sergey Chikalov noted that TMK has delivered a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of its of manufacturing operations. By upgrading its facilities, including the construction of state-of-the-art electric arc furnaces, the Company has managed to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions 2.5 times over the past 10 years, becoming a global leader in environmental performance among steelmaking companies.

Today, TMK is assessing the prospects for hydrogen energy, in particular reviewing design solutions for hydrogen production, storage, transportation and use. Experts currently are considering hydrogen transportation through existing pipelines – for this purpose, hydrogen can be added to natural gas (methane) to make up around 20% of the total volume. At the same time, according to Sergey Chikalov, the pipeline infrastructure needs to meet some additional requirements driven by the technological specifics of the new fuel, such as high permeability and hydrogen embrittlement. Next steps on a hydrogen energy path will require new technologies.

“Moving to a low-carbon economy will drive the technological development of companies committed to responsible social and environmental policies. TMK has been taking steps in this area for many years, consistently reducing its environmental footprint. We have developed and are now beginning to implement a comprehensive program to meet our new carbon footprint reduction targets. This includes participation in nationwide decarbonization initiatives, further reduction of emissions from our plants and product innovation in hydrogen energy throughout the process chain, from hydrogen production to its end use. Today, the hydrogen energy market is in its infancy, which offers a unique opportunity for the emerging industry to be developed through close collaboration between all stakeholders. That is why we invite all emerging players in this market to cooperate in building new capabilities in production, distribution and use of hydrogen, the 21st century fuel,” said Sergey Chikalov.