Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said he was heartened by Sanjeev Gupta’s announcement of a billion dollar expansion of the Whyalla steelworks.
“Mr Gupta has mapped out the steps and timeline for the transformation he announced in late 2018,” Mr Ramsey said.
“Given the challenges facing the global community I applaud his determination to press ahead and deliver on those earlier commitments.
“Whyalla businesses and residents know there has been a substantial amount of chatter and unease in recent months as to what is likely to happen at the steel works. The roadmap and commitment delivered by Mr Gupta is great news for the city and South Australia.”
Mr Ramsey said the plan to double production while introducing new technology to lower CO2 emissions eventually progressing to a “green steel” facility is part of Mr Gupta’s plan to become the world’s largest carbon-neutral steel producer by 2030 by replacing the outdated steel-making processes currently used.
“If that can be achieved it will put Whyalla and SA at the centre of interest in technological change and I would expect new opportunities to lever off that point,” Mr Ramsey said.
“Starting with the solar farm, then the rolling mill, the Direct Reduced Iron facility and electric arc furnace, this investment will deliver one of the most technologically advanced steel plants in the world and ensure Whyalla’s future for the next 40 years.
“Mr Gupta has restated his commitment to the Whyalla workforce and this announcement alone will give renewed confidence to the wider Whyalla community.”
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 02 6277 4967
June 10, 2020
