Tata Steel UK has secured approval for a £1.25 billion investment in a state-of-the-art electric arc furnace (EAF) project at its Port Talbot site. This significant investment, confirmed by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, marks the most substantial commitment to the UK steel industry in decades. The project aims to ensure high-quality steel production, preserve thousands of jobs, and secure the long-term future of steelmaking in South Wales.
Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK, expressed the company's dedication to building a greener future, with large-scale work set to begin this summer and the EAF expected to be operational by the end of 2027. The investment is supported by £500 million from the UK government and will reduce on-site carbon dioxide emissions by 90%, equivalent to 1.5% of the UK's total direct carbon dioxide emissions.
The transition from traditional blast furnace steelmaking to EAF technology will significantly cut emissions and enhance sustainability. The project includes the construction of two new ladle metallurgy furnaces for secondary steelmaking and supporting infrastructure. This development is seen as a major step forward in securing a bright, long-term future for steel in South Wales and the broader UK economy.
