ABB Powers SSAB’s Move Toward Fossil-Free Steel Production
VÄSTERÅS, Sweden, Oct. 21, 2025 – ABB has signed a major contract with SSAB to deliver key electrical infrastructure for its new fossil-free mini-mill in Luleå, Sweden. The collaboration marks another milestone in SSAB’s mission to decarbonize steelmaking and lead the industry’s energy transition.
A Milestone in Sustainable Steelmaking
SSAB plans to replace its existing steel operations in Luleå with a new fossil-free production facility by 2029. The new site will cut CO₂ emissions by 2.8 million tons each year, reducing the company’s overall footprint by 90%.
This shift will also lower Sweden’s national CO₂ emissions by around 7%, a major contribution to its climate goals.
ABB Delivers Reliable Electrification
ABB will design and deliver the site’s complete electrical infrastructure between 2025 and 2028. The project includes full engineering, supply, installation, and commissioning of power distribution systems.
The company will provide medium and low voltage equipment, transformers, UPS systems, backup power, and automation control systems.
By acting as a single supplier, ABB ensures seamless integration and long-term reliability across the entire power network.
Supporting Stable, Efficient Power Flow
The new Luleå mill will rely on energy-intensive electric arc furnaces instead of coal-based blast furnaces. ABB engineers designed a power system that guarantees stability and efficiency across all processes.
The collaboration began with early-stage studies and feasibility analysis to ensure a future-ready electrical foundation for SSAB’s transformation.
Long-Term Partnership and Shared Vision
“ABB has been a key partner to SSAB for decades,” said Carl Orrling, Chief Technology Officer at SSAB. “Their early involvement and strong local presence help us secure a smooth transition to fossil-free production.”
He emphasized that the new system will enable lower costs, shorter lead times, and improved flexibility in steel output.
Powering the Energy Transition
“Reliable electrification sits at the heart of fossil-free steelmaking,” said Frederik Esterhuizen, Global Business Line Manager for Metals and Power Conversion at ABB Process Industries.
“Together with SSAB, we created a robust infrastructure that supports both today’s needs and tomorrow’s ambitions.”
Esterhuizen added that ABB’s complete solution gives SSAB confidence to phase out coal-based methods without sacrificing performance.
Enabling Sustainable Industry Transformation
The project reinforces ABB’s position as a trusted partner to the metals sector. It highlights ABB’s unique ability to combine deep process expertise with electrification and digitalization technologies.
By helping SSAB achieve fossil-free steelmaking, ABB continues its mission to enable cleaner, smarter, and more efficient industries worldwide.
About ABB
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, driving a more resource-efficient and sustainable future. With over 140 years of innovation and 110,000 employees, ABB delivers engineering and digital solutions that help industries outperform. Learn more at www.abb.com.