Nornickel unveils major Sulfur initiative in Norilsk

This initiative is aimed at drastically reducing sulfur dioxide emissions in Norilsk, elevating the air quality for its residents. The construction took more than three years. The Northern Sea Route was the primary transportation channel, with icebreakers facilitating the delivery of equipment and materials. The project encompasses a new facility equivalent in size to seven football fields and has created approximately 500 new jobs to ensure its seamless operation.

The company has come a long way to launch the program: Nornickel partially reconfigured its metallurgical processes, established an advanced facility for sulfur dioxide (SO₂) utilization, and constructed essential infrastructure. Throughout this venture, a workforce of approximately 4,000, supported by over 400 specialized equipment units, worked to shape the Sulfur Program's facilities around the clock.

Challenges arose when certain international vendors declined to provide vital equipment to Russia. Nonetheless, with backing from the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, Nornickel successfully sourced alternative manufacturers and suppliers. Consequently, over 90% of the equipment now originates from Russia or allied countries.

Annually, Norilsk smelters release roughly 1.8 million tons of sulfur dioxide emissions. Nornickel's flagship environmental venture not only aligns with Russia's federal Clean Air Initiative but stands as its most significant commitment. The Nadezhda Smelter sulfur complex is poised for phased full-scale operations. With its completion, Norilsk anticipates a minimum 20% decline in overall pollutant emissions in 2024 in accordance with regulatory requirements. By 2025, the city's factories project a 45% reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions, referencing 2015 levels.

The project at the Nadezhda Smelter leverages technological process that converts sulfur dioxide into sulfuric acid. The acid is then neutralized using limestone to generate gypsum waste, safely managed within a designated storage facility. This approach is tailored to the unique attributes of the Norilsk Industrial District’s ore base, employed pyrometallurgical processes, and Norilsk's logistical challenges, including its absence of external rail links and limited Yenisei River navigation.

Upon full realization of the sulfur initiative at the Nadezhda Smelter, Nornickel's investment will surpass RUB 180 billion. These costs are purely environmental in nature.