Low-carbon iron producer GravitHy has submitted permit applications for its planned hot briquetted iron (HBI) plant in Fos-sur-Mer, marking a key milestone in the development of one of Europe’s flagship hydrogen-based ironmaking projects.
The permit submission follows several years of engineering work, environmental studies and stakeholder consultations, allowing the project to enter the regulatory review phase.
GravitHy plans to produce low-carbon HBI using hydrogen generated on-site through water electrolysis powered by low-carbon electricity. The HBI will be supplied to electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmakers across Europe as a substitute for carbon-intensive blast furnace iron units, supporting the steel industry’s decarbonization efforts.
The company said the project has been developed in collaboration with engineering, environmental and industrial partners, while consultations with local authorities, residents and other stakeholders have resulted in design modifications aimed at improving the project’s environmental integration.
Located in the Fos-sur-Mer industrial and port area in southern France, the project will benefit from established industrial infrastructure, port logistics, access to low-carbon energy and proximity to major European steel producers.
The French government has designated the project as a Project of Major National Interest (PINM), recognizing its strategic role in supporting industrial decarbonization, the hydrogen economy and the development of low-carbon manufacturing in France.
The permit applications will now be reviewed by the relevant authorities before construction can proceed. GravitHy said it will continue engaging with stakeholders throughout the permitting process as it advances the project toward implementation.