The steel industry is entering a new era with the inauguration of the first Scope 1 zero-emission rolling mill by FERALPI STAHL in Riesa. This facility marks a significant step towards sustainability, with an investment exceeding 220 million euros, the largest ever made by the company in Germany.
The new facility not only promises to reduce the environmental impact of steel production but also creates job opportunities in the region, generating over 100 new industrial jobs in Saxony.
Technological Innovations in the Rolling Mill
The “spooler” rolling mill features an advanced technological system that enables continuous rolling through the welding of billets. Equipped with zero-emission induction furnaces, this facility utilizes a 300-meter-long roller path to connect directly to the existing continuous casting plant. Thanks to this innovation, the production process occurs without direct CO2 emissions, thus contributing to the decarbonization of the steel industry.
With this cutting-edge technology, it will be possible to produce heavy coils weighing up to eight tons, setting new standards in the steel market.
A Positive Signal for the Local Economy
Michael Kretschmer, Minister President of Saxony, emphasized the importance of the investment, stating: “The investment in the new spooler rolling mill demonstrates the company’s confidence in Saxony as an industrial location.” He also highlighted the need for favorable conditions for industries to continue thriving and undergoing technological transformation.
Giuseppe Pasini, president of the Feralpi Group, reiterated the company’s commitment to investing in sustainable technologies to enhance competitiveness in the global market. He stressed the importance of collaboration with German and European political institutions to address crucial issues such as energy costs and the recognition of scrap metal as a strategic raw material.
Comprehensive Modernization Plan
The new rolling mill is part of a broader project aimed at modernizing existing facilities. In addition to the construction of the rolling mill itself, improvements are planned for facilities dedicated to scrap preparation and the establishment of a new electrical substation. These enhancements will make the recycling process more efficient and facilitate the integration of renewable energies into daily operations.
Uwe Reinecke, General Manager of FERALPI STAHL, stated: “With the launch of the new rolling mill, we are concretely realizing the vision of green steel.” This commitment extends beyond innovative technologies to also enhancing the human resources involved in industrial transformation.
The Feralpi Group: A Sustainable Leader
The Feralpi Group is one of the leading steel producers in Europe, recording a revenue of 1.7 billion euros in 2023. With over 1,900 direct employees and a specialization in the production of steel for construction and specialized applications, the company continues to invest in environmental respect and economic sustainability.
Feralpi aims not only to provide high-quality steel but also to do so in the most sustainable way possible through targeted technological investments and innovative practices that minimize consumption and emissions.
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