“Our US$1.2 billion expansion will further cement Big River Steel’s position as a global leader in terms of advanced manufacturing and environmental stewardship,” said Dave Stickler, Big River Steel’s chief executive officer. “Announcing this investment less than 18 months after beginning operations is a testament to the hard work and great success of the men and women on our team.”

Big River said it is working with SMS group Inc., its primary technology supplier, on the project. Major construction activity is set to begin later this year and will take place over 24 months.

Big River said the expansion will not only double its hot-rolled capacity, but will allow it to produce higher grades of electrical steel. In fact, the company said it is “exploring opportunities to supply the market with grain-oriented steel products, either within this expansion phase or as a future endeavor.”

Executives also said they are considering whether to build a next-generation, automotive-focused coating line, possibly in conjunction with a steel industry partner.  

You can find Big River’s full announcement here.