Blastr Green Steel and Knauf Interfer to Partner on Supplying Ultra-Low Co2 Steel in Europe

On 23 October 2024, Blastr Green Steel (Blastr) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Knauf Interfer, a prominent European metal processing company, for the annual supply of 100,000 tonnes of ultra-low CO2 steel. This partnership aims to significantly increase the availability of decarbonized steel products across Europe, supporting the continent’s growing demand for sustainable industrial solutions.

Blastr is at the forefront of creating a low-carbon steel value chain, boasting over 90% lower CO2 emissions compared to traditional steelmaking methods. By using hydrogen instead of coal in the production process and utilizing feedstock generated with clean energy, Blastr’s innovative approach significantly reduces the carbon footprint of steel production. As part of its broader strategy, Blastr is developing a steel plant in Inkoo, Finland, which is expected to produce 2.5 million tonnes of ultra-low CO2 steel annually. Additionally, Blastr is establishing a green pellets plant in the UK to further support Europe's increasing demand for environmentally friendly steel.

Mark Bula, CEO of Blastr, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating: "The collaboration between Blastr and Knauf Interfer is a crucial step in demonstrating Blastr’s business model, which is built on strong industrial partnerships and a customer-focused approach to meet the rapidly growing demand. Together, we will create a more efficient green steel value chain that not only addresses climate change but also ensures a resilient regional supply chain."

The collaboration will focus on developing a European supply network for ultra-low CO2 steel, leveraging Knauf Interfer’s production capabilities and supply chain management expertise. A key element of this network is Knauf Interfer’s trimodal hub in Duisburg, Germany, situated in Europe’s largest inland port. This hub provides streamlined logistics, ensuring the most efficient and sustainable delivery of green steel to customers in Central Europe.

Domenico Marino, COO of Knauf Interfer, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "We are thrilled to partner with Blastr for a greener future. This collaboration represents a major step forward in addressing the increased demand for green steel through sustainable supply chain solutions. It also reflects Knauf Interfer’s commitment to advancing the energy transition and contributing to a more sustainable industrial landscape."

This partnership between Blastr and Knauf Interfer marks a significant milestone in the effort to decarbonize steel production and supply, while also reinforcing the companies' shared commitment to driving sustainability and innovation in the European industrial sector.

Blastr Green Steel (Blastr) is focused on decarbonizing the steel industry by building an integrated green steel value chain that capitalizes on Nordic advantages. The company plans to utilize local raw materials and CO2-free energy, incorporating circular economy principles throughout the entire value chain. With this approach, Blastr aims to produce 2.5 million tonnes of ultra-low CO2 steel annually, achieving approximately 90% lower Scope 1-3 emissions compared to traditional steelmaking methods. Positioned to be one of the largest industrial start-ups in the Nordic region, Blastr Green Steel is part of Vanir Green Industries.

Based in Duisburg, Germany, Knauf Interfer is a prominent independent service provider, processor, and distributor of steel and aluminum in Europe. The company boasts an international supplier network and offers a diverse array of products, including both standard and specialized grades and dimensions of steel and aluminum. Its decentralized structure provides flexibility and efficient service, enhanced by cutting-edge technologies.