The McGowan Government has commenced work into the viability of sustainably processing Western Australian iron ore to green steel, or the inputs necessary to create green steel.
To deliver on this election commitment, the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia has appointed lead adviser GHD Group, in partnership with ACIL Allen, to investigate the iron ore-to-steel value chain.
Initial works will identify opportunities and barriers for WA to support the global steel industry’s green ambitions.
Further work will then examine regional infrastructure needs, market dynamics and policies needed to ensure the State has a comprehensive understanding on creating green steel.
With the steel industry generating between seven and nine per cent of global carbon emissions, there is a significant focus on the development of green steel to reduce this.
Traditionally, coal is used in the steel making process as both an energy source and as a reducing agent to extract iron. Green steel production will require renewable energy and hydrogen, or an alternative reducing agent, to avoid producing carbon dioxide.
The McGowan Government has committed $1 million to investigate the viability of a local green steel industry in WA. For more information, visit: https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/challenges/green-steel/
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:
“As the world’s largest supplier of iron ore, Western Australia has a significant role to play in understanding the viability of green steel.
“The lead time for Western Australia to capture this emerging opportunity means there is a need to start planning now.
“By investigating these opportunities, we are taking action to reduce climate-related risks, while also positioning the State as a preferred supplier to global markets and a sought after destination for investment.”
