China launches first coke oven gas conversion project turning waste into clean energy
China has officially put into operation its first demonstration project capable of 100 percent efficient conversion of coke oven gas, located in Lingyuan, Liaoning Province. The facility transforms exhaust gases from steel production into liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquid ammonia, and hydrogen using next‑generation separation and synthesis technology. The achievement is described as "one waste into three materials."
One LNG storage tank from the project can provide heating for about 200,000 households for a month. The liquid ammonia produced can be further processed into fertilizers, refrigerants, and even rocket propellants. Hydrogen, considered a key future energy source, adds long‑term potential to the system.
China produces around 210 billion cubic meters of coke oven gas annually. If 30 percent of this output were converted using the Lingyuan model, it would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 45 million tons per year. At the same time, it would generate more than 100 billion yuan (about 13.8 billion USD) in new economic value, offering a path toward greener and higher‑value steel industry operations.
The project was developed by Anji New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a Chinese company specializing in advanced energy conversion systems. By integrating LNG, ammonia, and hydrogen production, Anji provides a blueprint for the steel industry's transition toward low‑carbon, high‑efficiency solutions.
