GravitHy reaches a major milestone with the submission of permit applications for its Fos-sur-Mer project

Bringing a vision closer to reality

Since its creation in 2022, GravitHy has pursued a clear ambition: enabling the deep decarbonization of steel production by supplying low-carbon iron produced using hydrogen and low-carbon electricity.

The permit submission represents much more than an administrative milestone. It reflects the progress achieved in transforming an industrial vision into a concrete project supported by detailed engineering work, robust environmental assessments and extensive dialogue with stakeholders.

As Europe seeks to strengthen both its industrial competitiveness and its climate leadership, projects such as GravitHy are expected to play a key role in building the next generation of low-carbon value chains.

Built through engineering excellence and collaboration

The preparation of the permit applications has mobilized a broad ecosystem of technical, industrial and environmental experts.

GravitHy worked closely with leading partners, including EODD for environmental studies and permitting support, Bureau Veritas for risk assessments, and Enia Architectes and Rougerie+Tangram for architectural and landscape integration.

Together with numerous engineering firms, industrial partners and specialists, these teams have contributed to the development of a project designed to meet the highest standards of safety, environmental performance and industrial efficiency.

A project shaped through dialogue

Stakeholder engagement has been a cornerstone of the project’s development.

Since 2023, GravitHy has conducted a comprehensive dialogue process under the supervision of the French National Commission for Public Debate (CNDP). Public meetings, workshops, information sessions and continuous exchanges with local authorities, residents, associations and economic stakeholders have helped enrich the project and guide key design decisions.

Several adaptations were made as a direct result of discussions with stakeholders, reinforcing the project’s environmental integration and responsiveness to local concerns.

For GravitHy, this dialogue is not a regulatory requirement alone, it is an essential component of responsible project development.

Supporting the transformation of European steelmaking

Steel remains one of the world’s most essential industrial materials, but also one of its most carbon-intensive sectors.

GravitHy’s Fos-sur-Mer project aims to contribute to the transformation of the sector by producing low-carbon Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI) using hydrogen generated on-site through water electrolysis.

By supplying low-carbon iron to electric arc furnace operators across Europe, GravitHy intends to help accelerate the transition towards cleaner steel production while supporting the development of resilient and competitive European industrial value chains.

The project also contributes to broader European objectives related to industrial sovereignty, climate neutrality and the development of the hydrogen economy.

A strategic project for Fos-sur-Mer and Europe

The Fos-sur-Mer industrial and port area was selected thanks to its unique combination of industrial infrastructure, logistics capabilities, access to low-carbon energy and proximity to key players in the steel ecosystem.

The project has been recognised by the French government as a Project of Major National Interest (PINM), underlining its strategic importance for industrial decarbonization and economic development.

Beyond its industrial ambition, GravitHy aims to contribute to the long-term transformation of the Fos-sur-Mer industrial basin, supporting the emergence of new low-carbon industries and reinforcing the region’s position as a leading hub for industrial innovation.

Looking ahead

The submission of the permit applications initiates a new phase of the project, including the review process by the relevant authorities and continued engagement with stakeholders.

While important milestones remain ahead, this achievement reflects the dedication, expertise and determination of the GravitHy teams and their partners. As the project moves forward, GravitHy remains committed to transparency, dialogue and excellence in pursuing its mission: building the future of low-carbon iron production in Europe.

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