Tata Steel UK Appoints Skanska for Cutting-Edge Electric Arc Furnace Project
In a significant move towards sustainable steelmaking, Tata Steel UK has appointed Skanska to provide design and project management services for a state-of-the-art electric arc furnace (EAF) project in South Wales. This initiative aims to secure the long-term future of steel production in the region, while significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Skanska's Role in the Project
Under the agreement, Skanska’s Technology business will be responsible for civil and structural design for key sections of the project. This includes designing building foundations and structures for the new EAF, as well as site infrastructure and drainage. Susan Ryall, Engineering and Design Director at Skanska UK, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this project:
“We have been working closely with Tata Steel for the past four years, developing the design and project management solution for this complex scheme. We have a long history of delivering civil engineering works at Port Talbot. Building on this experience, we have worked collaboratively with the site team, using our technical expertise to create a solution that meets the needs of this project.”
A Milestone in Low-Carbon Steelmaking
Tata Steel UK’s Head of Project Engineering, Dave Murray, underscored the project's significance:
“This £1.25 billion investment in low CO2 steelmaking is the biggest commitment the UK steel industry has seen in generations. It is critical that it is delivered on specification, on time and on budget, so it is important for us to choose the very best industrial partners with a strong reputation for delivery.”
The new EAF, which will replace the decommissioned iron and steelmaking facilities at the Port Talbot site, will have an annual capacity to produce three million tonnes of steel. When commissioned by the end of 2027, the EAF is expected to reduce the site’s steelmaking carbon emissions by 90%, equivalent to five million tonnes of CO₂ per year.
Supporting Local Employment and Future Growth
The design and project management contract will be led by Skanska’s Technology team based in Bridgend, South Wales. This initiative not only supports local employment but also creates a platform for future growth in the region. A technical team from Skanska will be embedded with Tata Steel at Port Talbot, working alongside the main contractor, Sir Robert McAlpine.
Skanska’s involvement in the project highlights their commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable engineering solutions. As Susan Ryall noted,
“We are delighted to have been appointed and be playing our part in delivering this new electric arc furnace, helping to safeguard jobs across the UK, improve the environment and create new opportunities in the region.”
