Andrea Innocenti The Council of Ministers has just signed a decree-law aimed at the former Ilva steelworks in Taranto. The primary objective is to prevent the deterioration of the most critical plants by keeping them heated until the Court of Cassation issues its ruling. At the same time, the measure lays the groundwork for the redevelopment of approximately 100 hectares of former industrial land, creating a platform for new investments and job creation.
Maintaining the heating of the hot area systems
Coke batteries 7, 8, 9, and 12, along with the cowls of blast furnaces 1, 2, and 4, have been declared reheated . This technical condition serves to maintain the operational capacity of the facilities, preventing complete cooling, which could damage their components. The measure does not envisage an immediate resumption of production, but ensures that the lines remain ready for a possible restart following the Supreme Court ruling.
Reprogramming of 100 hectares for reindustrialization
The Ministry of Business and Made in Italy will collect expressions of interest for projects with a minimum investment of €10 million . Once the proposals are selected, an Investment Plan will be drawn up and approved by the Council of Ministers.
The plan will allow for the declaration of areas of strategic interest, the appointment of a special commissioner , and the coordination of the works envisaged in the Institutional Development Contract for Taranto, particularly the infrastructure required for settlements.
Fast-track procedure for new projects
Companies submitting projects included in the Plan will benefit from a fast-track process for the evaluation of development contracts, even bypassing the standard chronological order. Furthermore, companies planning to hire will be required to prioritize workers from Acciaierie d'Italia and Ilva, which are currently under extraordinary administration, ensuring employment continuity.
Work incentives and funding to support the transition
From November 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, employers hiring permanent employees of Acciaierie d'Italia and the former Ilva steelworks will be exempt from paying social security contributions. At the same time, the decree provides for the disbursement of the final tranche of a €40,5 million loan approved pursuant to the European Commission's decision of February 9, 2026.
Brindisi-Taranto District for decarbonization
The measure establishes the Brindisi-Taranto district dedicated to net-zero emission technologies . Environmental procedures are simplified to encourage the establishment of production facilities related to decarbonization and sustainable development. Furthermore, the Taranto Technology Park will receive €1 million annually to boost research, development, and technology transfer, with the goal of creating an industrial innovation ecosystem in Southern Italy.