Under a new framework agreement, BlueScope, along with Rio Tinto and BHP, will bring together work done to date, leveraging both BHP’s and Rio Tinto’s deep knowledge of Pilbara iron ores with BlueScope’s operating experience in electric smelting technology. 

“The collaboration provides a platform to develop and potentially invest in a pilot facility and aims to demonstrate that production of molten iron from Pilbara ores is feasible using renewable power when combined with direct reduced iron process technology. If successful, it could help open a potential pathway to near-zero greenhouse gas emission-intensity operations for steelmakers that rely on Australian iron ore to meet global steel demand,” the companies said in a statement. 

The partners are assessing several potential plant locations in Australia and are conducting a pre-feasibility study, which is to be finished by year’s end. If approved, the pilot facility could be commissioned as early as 2027.

“Building a pathway to low emission-intensity iron and steelmaking in Australia is a key priority for our business. We’re excited to be partnering with Rio Tinto and BHP to explore the decarbonization of the ironmaking process and leverage the natural advantages of Australia – namely our iron ore resources and the abundant potential for renewable energy,” said Tania Archibald, BlueScope’s chief executive in Australia.