A Strategic Collaboration for Fossil-Free Steel Production
ABB and SSAB have entered a landmark agreement to accelerate the transition toward fossil-free steelmaking in Sweden. Under this partnership, ABB will design, supply, install, and commission the main electrical infrastructure for SSAB’s new steel plant in Luleå. This facility marks a pivotal step in SSAB’s mission to eliminate fossil fuels from its production process and to set a new global standard in sustainable metallurgy.
Building a Future-Ready Power Infrastructure
The project includes a full suite of power systems and engineering services that will ensure reliable energy distribution across the entire site. ABB’s scope of supply covers power system design, medium- and low-voltage equipment, distribution transformers, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), DC distribution, backup power systems, and advanced automation and monitoring technologies. Acting as the exclusive supplier, ABB will also handle equipment installation and commissioning to guarantee seamless integration and operational reliability.
Driving Sweden’s Decarbonization Efforts
Once operational by the end of 2029, the new facility will replace SSAB’s existing Luleå steel plant. The transition is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by 2.8 million tons annually—equivalent to a 90% reduction compared to current levels. This milestone could lower Sweden’s overall carbon emissions by 7%, positioning the country as a leader in sustainable industrial transformation.
Electrification: The Heart of Green Steelmaking
The success of SSAB’s new facility relies heavily on a stable and efficient power distribution system, as it will utilize energy-intensive technologies such as electric arc furnaces. ABB’s early involvement in the feasibility and design phases ensured that the plant’s energy needs are met through a resilient, future-proof electrical network capable of delivering consistent, high-quality power.
A Longstanding Partnership Strengthened
“ABB has been a trusted partner of SSAB for decades,” said Carl Orrling, SSAB’s CTO and Head of Transformation Projects. “Their early engagement and ability to combine global expertise with strong local presence were decisive factors. With these new solutions, we expect improved cost efficiency, faster delivery, and greater flexibility to meet production demands.”
Frederik Esterhuizen, Global Head of Metals and Power Conversion at ABB Process Industries, added: “Reliable electrification solutions are at the core of fossil-free steelmaking. By working closely with SSAB from the start, we were able to create an integrated power infrastructure that supports both their immediate and long-term sustainability goals.”
Empowering the Green Transformation of Heavy Industry
This collaboration underscores ABB’s vital role in enabling the steel and metals sector to achieve sustainable operations through advanced electrification and automation technologies. As SSAB embarks on this ambitious transformation, the Luleå project will stand as a model for decarbonized, high-efficiency steel production — shaping the future of global heavy industry.