Hudbay secures permit for Copper Mountain expansion to 2040

Hudbay secures permit for Copper Mountain expansion, extending operations to 2040 and unlocking higher-grade mineralization. The company received amended environmental approvals from the BC Major Mines Office. The expansion aims to increase copper production by 90% and strengthen Hudbay Minerals’ position as one of Canada’s largest copper producers.

The New Ingerbelle project comprises nested pit pushbacks on the historic Ingerbelle pit. It will extend the mine schedule from 2027 to 2037. Hudbay projects the expansion will produce approximately 750,000 tonnes of copper, 900,000 ounces of gold, and 5.5 million ounces of silver over its extended lifespan. From 2036 to 2040, the operation will focus on low-grade ore re-handling and eventual reclamation.

Hudbay secures permit for Copper Mountain expansion, boosting Canadian copper output

Hudbay secures permit for Copper Mountain expansion as part of British Columbia’s strategy to support critical minerals. The project will preserve 800 direct jobs and generate over C$11.5 billion in provincial GDP. BC’s Minister for Mining and Critical Minerals, Jagrup Brar, highlighted the community benefits and employment stability offered by the expansion.

The miner proactively engaged local stakeholders, signing agreements with two First Nations groups. CEO Peter Kukielski emphasized that the permit allows Hudbay to advance the project while maintaining strong community partnerships. The Copper Mountain mine has a long operational history, dating back to 1884, with modern operations restarting in 2011.

Economic and operational impact of Copper Mountain expansion

Hudbay’s acquisition of Copper Mountain in June 2023 included a 45,000-tonne-per-day processing plant. The facility uses conventional crushing, grinding, and flotation circuits to produce copper concentrates with gold and silver credits. Last year, the mine produced 22,445 tonnes of copper, 19,465 ounces of gold, and 221,406 ounces of silver. The New Ingerbelle expansion will significantly increase production volumes and extend the mine’s life.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Hudbay secures permit for Copper Mountain expansion at a critical time for global copper supply. The project strengthens Canada’s role in supplying metals essential for electrification and energy transition. Extended mine life and higher-grade extraction will improve operational efficiency and regional economic impact. Investors should monitor construction milestones, permitting progress, and metal output, as Copper Mountain could become a benchmark for sustainable Canadian copper production.