ArcelorMittal, one of the world's leading steel and mining companies, has announced plans to construct an advanced non-grain-oriented electrical steel (NOES) manufacturing facility in Alabama. The project, valued at $1.2 billion, is designed to support the growing demand for NOES, a crucial material for electric motors, renewable energy production, and various industrial applications. This investment represents a strategic effort to enhance U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and reduce reliance on imported electrical steel.
With operations spanning 60 countries and primary steelmaking facilities in 15, ArcelorMittal remains a dominant force in global steel production. In North America, the company employs over 14,000 individuals across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. ArcelorMittal’s U.S. footprint includes several manufacturing facilities, including AM/NS Calvert in Alabama, a joint venture with Nippon Steel, and multiple tubular products plants in Ohio.
While ArcelorMittal operates numerous facilities across the country, the Alabama NOES plant will stand out due to its advanced capabilities, specifically catering to EV manufacturing and renewable energy sectors. The new facility is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting the U.S. market’s growing demand for high-quality electrical steels.
The upcoming facility will be wholly owned by ArcelorMittal and will have the capacity to produce up to 150,000 metric tons of NOES annually, depending on product mix. NOES is critical for electric motors used in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), hybrid vehicles, and energy-efficient industrial applications.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025, with production commencing in 2027. The project is expected to create approximately 1,300 jobs during the construction phase and over 200 permanent positions once operational.
The Alabama state government and local economic development organizations have expressed strong support for the project.
John Brett, CEO of ArcelorMittal North America, emphasized the importance of establishing a resilient domestic supply chain for NOES, stating,
“We recognize the importance of creating a sustainable supply chain for this critical material. This facility will enable U.S. manufacturers to access high-quality electrical steels domestically, reducing lead times and supply chain disruptions.”
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey praised the investment, shared,
“ArcelorMittal’s $1.2 billion investment not only strengthens Alabama’s position as a key player in the steel industry but also paves the way for innovation in electric motors and renewable energy technologies.”
The new NOES plant is expected to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities by reducing dependence on foreign imports, particularly from China and other global steel producers. By expanding its U.S. operations, ArcelorMittal aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing localization, sustainability, and innovation in steel manufacturing.
The facility will feature state-of-the-art manufacturing technology, including an annealing pickling line, cold-rolling mill, annealing coating line, packaging and slitter line, and additional equipment necessary for specialized electrical steel production.
U.S. Senator Katie Britt highlighted the national security benefits of domestic steel production, noting, “Onshoring critical supply chains is imperative to fuel a powerful new era of ‘Made in America’ excellence.”
