Supported by California’s Jobs First initiative, Pacific Steel Group’s Mojave Micro Mill in Kern County has become the state’s first new steel mill to break ground in more than 50 years. According to state officials, the facility is expected to open next year and create approximately 700 jobs.

The 500,000-square-foot mill will melt locally sourced scrap steel in an electric arc furnace, supported by a 63-acre solar installation and battery storage. It is expected to produce approximately 380,000 tons of seismic-grade rebar annually while reducing emissions associated with traditional steelmaking.

State support includes a $30 million tax credit, up to $14 million for battery storage, and up to $10 million in sales and use tax exclusions for manufacturing equipment. In exchange for the tax credit, the company committed to more than $540 million in capital investment and nearly 450 new jobs during its first five years of operation.

Pacific Steel is also partnering with local universities and community colleges to develop training programs and pathways into steel manufacturing careers.