voestalpine and VERBUND are collaborating to expand the H2FUTURE pilot plant in Linz, Austria, to advance research on green hydrogen for sustainable steel production. The project, initiated in 2019, marked a significant milestone in hydrogen research and is now undergoing a substantial upgrade. The expansion, with a total investment of EUR 16.4 million, includes the addition of a compression and purification unit and five hydrogen storage tanks. These upgrades aim to enhance the handling, transportation, and utilization of green hydrogen, supporting ongoing research and application in the field. The 'H2FUTURE Follow-up' project emphasizes improving hydrogen purity and pressure parameters necessary for industrial-scale applications, aligning with Austria's commitment to decarbonize steel production. voestalpine plans to incorporate the green hydrogen into its greentec steel initiative, aiming for carbon-neutral steel production by 2050. Functional testing of the enhanced plant is expected to start in January 2026, with results projected by the year-end, contributing to the company's long-term sustainability goals.