U.S. House Passes Critical Mineral Consistency Act to Strengthen Domestic Supply Chain

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the Critical Mineral Consistency Act (H.R. 8446) by a vote of 245 to 155. This law aims to align the Department of Energy’s (DOE) and the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) lists of critical minerals. By harmonizing these lists, copper, silicon, and other materials will gain eligibility for energy benefits. This will help strengthen U.S. energy security.

The act addresses differences between the DOE’s and USGS’s approaches to identifying critical minerals. The DOE’s 2023 list considers both material essentiality and supply risk. In contrast, the USGS’s 2022 list mainly focused on historical data, excluding copper despite its importance to U.S. energy infrastructure.

Copper’s Strategic Role and Clean Energy Support

The act will particularly benefit copper. Copper is vital for renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and electric grids. Copper Development Association (CDA) President Adam Estelle praised the bill’s passage. He emphasized that copper is key to electrifying transportation and strengthening U.S. infrastructure. Copper’s new status will help support domestic mining, refining, and recycling. It will also reduce reliance on foreign imports and strengthen the U.S. supply chain.

Industry Support and Bipartisan Backing

The Critical Mineral Consistency Act has received strong bipartisan support. It has backing from organizations such as the National Mining Association and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Congressman Juan Ciscomani, the bill’s sponsor, stressed the need for U.S. energy security. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring a steady supply of critical minerals.

Next Steps: Senate Consideration

The bill will now be considered by the Senate. The Senate will review it alongside companion bill S. 5274. Industry groups, including the CDA, are urging the Senate to act quickly. Standardizing critical mineral criteria and recognizing copper’s importance will help U.S. energy security and clean energy goals.