SSAB’s plan to launch its electric arc furnace (EAF) in Oxelösund has been delayed due to permitting appeals linked to species protection, affecting the construction of a required power line.

Vattenfall Eldistribution, responsible for the grid connection, confirmed the delay, which impacts the planned early 2027 start-up. Construction of the furnace itself continues on schedule and within budget.

SSAB said that external permitting and grid connection processes in Sweden create uncertainty for industrial electrification projects. The company will provide updates once the delay timeline becomes clearer.

The postponement is not expected to affect SSAB’s 2026 financial results or customer deliveries. The Oxelösund conversion remains a key step in reducing Sweden’s carbon emissions, with an estimated cut of about 3%.