Outokumpu, a global leader in sustainable stainless steel, announced a EUR40 million investment to establish a biocarbon production plant in Sassnitz, Germany. Utilizing existing infrastructure at Mukran Port, the facility will have an annual production capacity of 15,000 tons, using waste wood as raw material. Scheduled for commissioning in the first half of 2026, the plant will supply biocoke to Outokumpu's pelletizing plant in Tornio, Finland.

Biocoke, a low-emission reductant for ferrochrome production, could help Outokumpu cut direct emissions by up to 50%. This aligns with the company's goal to reduce emissions intensity by 42% by 2030, compared to 2016 levels.

Biocoke represents the best available technology to reduce emissions, said CTO Stefan Erdmann. The project also includes plans for heat and electricity generation from side-stream gases, reinforcing Outokumpu's commitment to innovative, sustainable practices.