Finnish infrastructure company Enersense has signed a contract worth approximately €30 million with US-based Aquatech for work on the water treatment plant being built for Stegra’s steel facility in Boden, northern Sweden. The project forms part of the large industrial complex intended to produce low-emission steel.
Enersense will be responsible for installing piping systems, steel structures and related equipment for the water treatment facility. Work is expected to begin during the third quarter of 2026 and be completed in the first quarter of 2027. The contract will be recorded in the company’s Energy Transition segment during the second quarter.
Water treatment is critical for steel production
The water facility is a key part of Stegra’s operations in Boden. It will supply purified and demineralised water to the electrolysers used for hydrogen production, treat cooling water from steelmaking processes and recycle process water for reuse.
According to Stegra, 99.9% of process water will be returned to the system. The solution includes wastewater treatment, zero liquid discharge systems and water supply infrastructure for cooling operations.
Large quantities of highly purified water are required for electrolysis, making water management a crucial element of hydrogen-based steel production.
Enersense to install water systems for Stegra's green steel plant - Aquatech to operate the facility for 25 years
Aquatech is responsible for the design, operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant under a 25-year service agreement. The project is financed together with British infrastructure investor John Laing, which is providing long-term capital.
The US water technology company has previously described the project as a model for future industrial water systems and has highlighted the importance of advanced treatment technologies and long-term partnerships in reducing environmental impacts.
Strategic project for Enersense
Enersense described the agreement as strategically important, saying it strengthens the company’s position in industrial energy transition projects.
“We are proud to contribute to the development of low-emission steel production and to participate in a project that plays an important role in the climate transition,” said Mikael Vainionpää, head of Enersense’s Energy Transition business.
Aquatech also noted that Enersense’s technical expertise and working methods were key factors behind the cooperation.
Stegra targets lower-emission steel production
Stegra, formerly known as H2 Green Steel, is building what it describes as the world’s first large-scale integrated facility for producing green hydrogen, iron and steel. The company aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from steelmaking by up to 95% compared with conventional blast furnace production.
Commercial production is scheduled to begin in 2026.
The project is one of the largest industrial investments in northern Sweden and has attracted suppliers and investors from several countries.
Source: Enersense, Stegra
