Core Viewpoint - The steel industry in China, as the largest producer and consumer globally, faces significant pressure to reduce carbon emissions, which account for approximately 15% of the country's total emissions. The transition to a low-carbon model, particularly through the adoption of electric arc furnace (EAF) short processes, is becoming increasingly urgent in the context of global green transformation [1]. Group 1: Development of Electric Arc Furnace Short Processes - The report highlights that the traditional blast furnace-converter process is challenged by high carbon emissions due to its reliance on iron ore and coal, while the EAF short process, which primarily uses scrap steel, offers clear advantages in terms of low carbon emissions and energy efficiency [1][2]. - Sichuan province has emerged as a leader in the development of EAF short processes, with a total crude steel capacity of 32.3 million tons, where the short process accounts for approximately 40% of the total production [2]. - The province's electricity generation capacity has increased significantly, with hydropower contributing over 80% of the total, providing a stable and low-cost energy source for EAF operations [2]. Group 2: Challenges in Scrap Steel Supply - Scrap steel is the primary raw material for the EAF short process, but a shortage of scrap resources poses a significant barrier to its development. By 2045, scrap steel is expected to become the main raw material for steel production in China, with EAF processes projected to account for about 50% of production by 2060 [3]. - A specific example from a southwestern province indicates that while scrap steel resources have increased from 8.86 million tons in 2020 to 9.64 million tons in 2024, consumption has also risen, leading to a persistent shortage [3]. Group 3: Economic Viability and Cost Challenges - The production cost of EAF short processes in Sichuan is approximately 300 RMB per ton higher than that of traditional processes, primarily due to high scrap prices and greater energy consumption [5]. - The report suggests that stable clean energy supply is crucial for maintaining the cost-effectiveness of EAF production, as fluctuations in energy availability can undermine its low-carbon advantages [5]. - To enhance the economic viability of EAF short processes, the report recommends promoting green finance and establishing a green premium sharing mechanism to improve competitiveness [5]. Group 4: Industry Perspectives and Future Outlook - Despite current cost challenges, many steel companies remain optimistic about the future of EAF technology. It is anticipated that as carbon emission costs rise, companies will reassess the overall costs, including carbon costs, leading to increased investment in EAF short processes [6].