Master Thesis in Stegra Hydrogen Centre of Excellence: System-level feasibility of oxygen delivery for lake restoration

Stegra, previously H2 Green Steel, is on a mission to disrupt the global steel industry by producing green steel. During 2026, we will initiate the production of green steel in our fully integrated, digitalized and sustainable plant in Boden, Sweden, ramping up to 2.5 million tons of steel annually. But this is just the beginning, we also have a funnel of potential projects at several locations globally. Also, our expertise in green hydrogen will enable us to decarbonize other industries in addition to steel, and we look forward to what’s next in store for us. We are looking for talented, innovative and purpose-driven people to join our rapidly growing and diverse team. Together, we are building an impact company with sustainability at its core – for our people, customers, investors, society and planet.

This master thesis offers an exciting opportunity to explore innovative solutions for hydrogen production being part of our Hydrogen Centre of Excellence.

Assignment

The lakes in Boden suffers from eutrophication and oxygen depletion in its bottom waters. A promising concept is to utilize oxygen generated as by-product in Stegra’s electrolyser plant to re-oxygenate the hypolimnion. By maintaining oxidizing conditions, oxygen prevents the reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+. This stabilizes iron hydroxides, which effectively bind phosphorus in the sediments and thus reduce internal nutrient loading and algal bloom risk. In a research project at Luleå University of Technology (LTU), tests will be performed on the effects of oxygenation of Svartbyträsket in controlled water columns. Stegra seeks a system-level feasibility study to understand requirements, technical options and business opportunities in relation to this approach. The purpose of the thesis will be to evaluate the technical and economical feasibility of using electrolyser oxygen to restore Svartbyträsket’s and other Boden lakes’ oxygen balance. Focus will be on high-level process/system design, safety and potential value creation for Stegra.

The work will include:

• Literature review and data collection

• Technical benchmarking of oxygenation systems, including energy efficiency and operational risks

• Specification of equipment required to route oxygen from Stegra’s hydrogen manufacturing plant to Svartbyträsket.

• Cost analysis (CAPEX/OPEX) and development of business model, also covering potential role of other offtake, which may become economically viable in combination with this project, but not as standalone.

We are looking for one Master’s student in Process Chemistry, Industrial Engineering and Management, Mechanical Engineering or similar.

Start date: Spring 2025, Duration: 20 weeks (30 ECTS credits)

Location: Boden/Luleå or Stockholm

Contact: Marita Nilsson, Hydrogen Technology and Innovation Lead, marita.nilsson@stegra.com