ARIZONA — In a major move for domestic mineral production, Ivanhoe Electric is set to open what could be the first American-owned copper mine built in the U.S. in more than 10 years. The project marks a significant step toward boosting America’s supply of critical materials used in everything from electrical grids to electric vehicles.

According to Ivanhoe Electric CEO Taylor Melvin, the site contains enough reserves to produce nearly 3 billion pounds of copper over the life of the mine.

“This is about securing America's industrial future,” Melvin said. “Our copper resources are vital to national infrastructure, energy independence, and clean technology growth.”

As global demand for copper surges, especially for use in green energy and electrification, the U.S. has increasingly relied on imports. Ivanhoe’s initiative could help reduce that dependency while creating local jobs and stimulating economic development in the region.

The mine is also expected to follow environmental and sustainability standards, aligning with broader efforts to responsibly extract key resources while minimizing ecological impact.

The company has not yet confirmed a projected opening date but emphasized its commitment to working closely with regulators, local communities, and Native American tribes in the area.