Boliden, Nevel, Skellefteå Kraft and Sveaskog have signed a letter of intent on a feasibility study to establish a value chain for hydrogen and biofuels in Västerbotten. In the extension, the goal is, among other things, to enable the phasing out of fossil fuel that is currently used in processes at the Rönnskär smelter.
Boliden, Nevel, Skellefteå Kraft and Sveaskog have a common ambition to greatly reduce CO2 emissions in society. In the preliminary study, the actors will explore a possible solution to drastically reduce emissions at Rönnskär in Skellefteå. Together, the actors contribute to different parts of the value chain, Sveaskog with a focus on forest raw materials, Skellefteå Kraft with its experience in renewable energy solutions, Nevel with technical know-how and experience in utility infrastructure and Boliden with a focus on processes for metal production. Together, the companies strengthen each other's conditions and connect several sectors.The study, which is coordinated by Sweco, will evaluate the technical potential for a large-scale industrial cluster in the production and use of sustainably produced energy such as biochar and hydrogen.
"Creating and using a local value chain when carrying out the transition from fossil to fossil free based energy is of course a venue we need to explore in detail. Given the importance of the metal production in Rönnskär, this is not only valuable to us, but for the general electrification in society", says Mats Gustavsson, Energy Director, Boliden.
"By collaborating across sectors, our renewable energy can contribute with maximum value creation for Sweden", says Joachim Nordin, CEO, Skellefteå Kraft.
"We want to contribute with our expertise in forest raw materials to broaden the distribution of the forest owners' products and enable the transition of the metallurgical industry towards a reduced dependence on fossil fuels. Green metals require green carbon atoms and we have them", says Per Callenberg, Head of Sustainable Business Development, Sveaskog.
"We are excited to enter a cooperation that supports the parties' joint ambition for a climate transition that could provide extensive benefits for the whole society long term and at the same time strengthen the customers' competitiveness. The study provides more understanding of a potential new business model, where material and side streams act as a new resource and platform for local circular economy", says Stefan Johnsson, Commercial Director, Nevel.
The preliminary study is expected to last six months, after which the parties will draw conclusions and discuss possible further collaborations.
For further information, please contact:
Klas Nilsson
Director Group Communications
+46 70 453 6588
[email protected]