Tata Steel UK has submitted a planning application to Neath Port Talbot Council for the installation of a cutting-edge Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) at its Port Talbot steelworks. This follows the UK Government’s commitment through a Grant Funding Agreement and a design and supply contract with Tenova, marking a significant move towards decarbonizing steel production and securing the future of steelmaking in South Wales.
The planning application comes after a comprehensive consultation process involving local communities, Tata Steel employees, and other stakeholders. Neath Port Talbot Council is now reviewing the application, with a decision expected in early 2025.
The submission of the planning application follows a thorough engagement program that involved thousands of individuals, including local residents, Tata Steel UK employees, and regulatory bodies, with the pre-application consultation concluding on October 15. Neath Port Talbot Council will now begin its review and consultation process for the proposed project, with a decision expected in early 2025.
Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK, expressed his satisfaction: “We are excited to have submitted our planning application for Electric Arc Furnace-based steelmaking at Port Talbot, and I’d like to extend my gratitude to all who have participated in the process.”
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds remarked, “This is another crucial step towards ensuring a strong, sustainable future for steelmaking in South Wales, further enhancing the transition agreement made between the government and Tata Steel for Port Talbot. It’s encouraging to see these plans advancing rapidly as we work to decarbonize the steel sector. The upcoming Steel Strategy, which includes up to £2.5 billion in funding, will further accelerate this progress.”
Tata Steel Group, recognized as one of the most ethical companies globally, is one of the top steel producers, with an annual crude steel capacity of 34 million tonnes. Tata Steel UK aims to achieve net-zero steel production by 2045, with a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.
Tata Steel is the UK’s largest steelmaker, with primary steelmaking operations in Port Talbot, South Wales, and manufacturing and distribution facilities across the UK, as well as in Norway, Sweden, France, and Germany.
The company employs over 8,000 people and has an annual crude steel capacity of 5 million tonnes, producing high-quality steel for sectors such as construction, automotive, packaging, and engineering. Tata Steel Group is a globally diversified steel producer, with operations and a commercial presence worldwide.
