GREEN STEEL: Coega Steels launches R500m low-emission rolling mill, creating 600 jobs
Coega Steels is launching a new rolling mill in Nelson Mandela Bay designed to boost production while cutting emissions. The initiative will create 300 direct and 300 indirect jobs, providing vital relief to the Eastern Cape, where the unemployment rate is 47.5%.
Coega Steels has opened a new R500-million rolling mill in Nelson Mandela Bay, aimed at boosting production while reducing emissions and creating 600 jobs. The initiative is a crucial step in addressing high unemployment in the Eastern Cape, where the unemployment rate stands at 47.5%. The new mill, officially launched on October 20, boasts an annual production capacity of 150,000 tonnes and will enable the company to manufacture finished products for various construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.
The rolling mill is expected to generate 300 direct jobs and an additional 300 indirect jobs. Coega Steels anticipates that around 240 of these direct positions will be filled by South African workers, while between 60 and 80 skilled specialists will be recruited from abroad. The company aims to source about 90% of its local workforce from Nelson Mandela Bay, fostering a skilled workforce and creating opportunities for local suppliers and small businesses.
Coega Steels' emissions are significantly lower than conventional iron ore-based steelmaking, with the company emitting about 800kg of carbon dioxide per tonne of steel produced, compared to 2.5-3.5 tonnes for conventional methods. This reduced carbon footprint is attributed to the investment's emphasis on renewable energy, allowing Coega Steels to position itself as one of the cleanest steel producers in South Africa.
The company aims to meet its customers' demand for low-carbon products and gain a competitive edge in both domestic and export markets.
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