Emsteel launches world's first electric process gas heaters in steelmaking

11/09/2025 03:50 AST

Emsteel Group, one of the largest publicly traded steel and building materials manufacturers in the region, has announced a landmark partnership with global technology leader Danieli to launch the first Electric Process Gas Heater (ePGH) pilot for the steel sector.

The initiative marks a pivotal step in Emsteel's decarbonisation roadmap, reinforcing its leadership in the region's transition to low-emission industrial processes, the company said.

The ePGH pilot replaces conventional gas-fired heaters with an electric alternative at Emsteel's DRI plants, eliminating over 2,200 tons of CO² annually using green electricity. This innovation directly supports Emsteel's commitment to reducing emissions by 40% by 2030 in its steel business division and represents a critical step in its broader green steel strategy.

Engineered in close collaboration with Danieli's R&D division, the system has undergone rigorous simulation, testing, and modelling to ensure optimal performance under industrial conditions. Starting with a 1.3MW pilot phase, the project sets the foundation for scaling up to a 22.7MW system that could redefine how thermal processes are decarbonised across the steel industry.

This pilot is not only a first in the global steel sector but also a scalable model for future retrofits. By replacing fossil-fuel-based heat sources with clean electric alternatives, Emsteel is creating a tangible pathway toward net-zero operations.

Engineer Saeed Ghumran Saeed Al Remeithi, Group CEO of Emsteel, stated: "At Emsteel, we are committed to shaping the future of sustainable manufacturing. By adopting scalable clean technologies, we accelerate our sustainable steel strategy and strengthen the UAE's position as a global hub for industrial innovation. Our goal is to deliver industrial solutions that create lasting positive impact for the environment, the economy, and future generations."

This milestone reaffirms Emsteel's leadership in sustainable manufacturing and underscores its commitment to advancing a low-carbon future for the UAE and beyond. The company has already made substantial progress, having reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions intensity by 23%. As of 2023, Emsteel's total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions stood at 4.5 million tonnes of CO², marking a significant step forward in its journey toward net-zero, the company said.

Trade Arabia