MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday that ArcelorMittal, one of the world’s top steel producers, will invest $1.2 billion to build an advanced manufacturing facility in Mobile County. The new plant will produce specialty non-grain-oriented electrical steel (NOES), a critical material used in electric vehicle (EV) motors, renewable energy, and other industrial applications.
The investment will generate more than 200 permanent jobs at ArcelorMittal Calvert, with the facility capable of producing up to 150,000 metric tons of NOES annually. Additionally, up to 1,300 jobs are expected during the construction phase.
Strengthening Alabama’s Industrial Leadership
Governor Ivey highlighted the project’s economic and industrial significance:
“Iron and steel manufacturing put Alabama on the map more than a century ago. Today, ArcelorMittal’s $1.2 billion investment reinforces our state’s leadership in the steel industry. While creating over 200 new jobs, this project will also bring tremendous economic benefits and demonstrate Alabama’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation.”
The facility will be built near AM/NS Calvert, ArcelorMittal’s existing joint venture with Nippon Steel, expanding the company’s manufacturing footprint in Alabama.
Boosting U.S. Manufacturing and Supply Chain Resilience
The project aims to reduce U.S. dependency on electrical steel imports by strengthening domestic NOES production.
“We recognize the importance of building a resilient and sustainable domestic supply chain for this critical material,” said John Brett, CEO of ArcelorMittal North America. “We greatly appreciate the support from Governor Ivey, Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair, and Mobile County leaders, whose backing helps drive economic growth in the region.”
Driving Innovation in the EV and Energy Sectors
NOES plays a crucial role in the production of EV motors, hybrid vehicles, and advanced energy technologies. The new facility will include:
– An annealing pickling line
-A cold-rolling mill
-An annealing coating line
-Packaging and slitter lines
ArcelorMittal’s Peter Leblanc, Chief Marketing Officer for North America, emphasized the project’s impact on manufacturers:
“This plant will ensure a steady domestic supply of high-quality NOES, helping manufacturers avoid material shortages, extended lead times, and price fluctuations associated with overseas supply chains.”
Economic Growth and Local Impact
Alabama officials welcomed ArcelorMittal’s investment as a transformative step for Mobile County’s economy and the future of sustainable steel production.
“This $1.2 billion investment represents next-generation innovation that will strengthen Alabama’s industrial base and national security,” said U.S. Senator Katie Britt. “Onshoring critical supply chains is key to America’s manufacturing leadership.”
“ArcelorMittal’s expansion drives job creation and positions Mobile County as a hub for advanced manufacturing,” added Mobile Chamber President Bradley Byrne.
Construction is set to begin in late 2025, with production expected to start in 2027.
With this groundbreaking investment, ArcelorMittal is not only advancing steel production but also shaping the future of EV manufacturing and energy-efficient technologies.
