Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey announced on Wednesday that ArcelorMittal, one of the world’s leading steel producers, will invest $1.2 billion to construct an advanced manufacturing facility in Mobile County. The new plant will specialize in producing non-grain-oriented electrical steel (NOES), a crucial material for electric vehicle motors and other industrial applications.
The investment is expected to create more than 200 permanent jobs at ArcelorMittal Calvert, with the facility capable of producing up to 150,000 metric tons of NOES annually, depending on the product mix. The plant’s output will support industries including automotive manufacturing, renewable energy production, and electric motor manufacturing.
The facility will be built near ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel’s existing AM/NS Calvert steel mill in Mobile County but will be wholly owned by ArcelorMittal. Construction is set to begin in the second half of 2025, with production expected to commence in 2027. In addition to permanent positions, the project is projected to create up to 1,300 jobs during the construction phase.
Governor Ivey highlighted the significance of the project, emphasizing Alabama’s longstanding role in the steel industry. “Iron and steel manufacturing put Alabama on the map as a key industrial leader more than a century ago. Today, ArcelorMittal’s $1.2 billion investment strengthens Alabama’s position as a leader in the steel industry,” she said. “While creating over 200 new jobs, this project will also bring tremendous economic benefits to our state and underscores Alabama’s commitment to supporting companies that drive progress and create opportunities for our citizens.”
ArcelorMittal officials stated that the project will enhance U.S. manufacturing competitiveness by expanding domestic NOES production, thereby reducing reliance on imports. “We recognize the importance of creating a resilient, sustainable domestic supply chain for this critical material,” said John Brett, CEO of ArcelorMittal North America. He acknowledged the support of Governor Ivey, Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair, the Mobile County Commission, and the Mobile Chamber, stating that their backing contributes to both ArcelorMittal’s mission and economic growth in the region.
The company outlined plans for the facility to include an annealing pickling line, cold-rolling mill, annealing coating line, packaging and slitter line, and additional equipment needed for specialized electrical steel production.
State and local leaders have welcomed the investment, citing its economic impact and potential for long-term growth. Secretary McNair of the Alabama Department of Commerce emphasized that the project will support industries like electric vehicles and energy-efficient technology, while Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne called it a “transformative project” that strengthens the local economy. Mobile County Commission President Merceria Ludgoodnoted that the investment would provide high-paying jobs and help position the county as a hub for advanced manufacturing and sustainable technology.
Alabama’s congressional delegation also praised the development, with U.S. Senator Katie Britt calling it a step toward onshoring critical supply chains and reinforcing America’s global manufacturing leadership. Congressman Barry Moore added that he looks forward to supporting the economic growth driven by ArcelorMittal’s expansion in South Alabama.
As demand for high-quality electrical steels increases, ArcelorMittal’s investment is seen as a move toward strengthening domestic supply chains and meeting the needs of industries reliant on advanced steel products.