Taseko’s Florence Mine Delivers First New US Copper in 17 Years

Why It Matters

The launch strengthens domestic copper supply amid rising demand for electric vehicles, semiconductors and defense, reducing US reliance on imported refined copper. It also supports national critical‑minerals goals by adding rare smelting capacity.

Key Takeaways

• First US greenfield copper output since 2008
• Florence aims 85M lbs LME Grade A annually
• Project uses in-situ copper recovery (ISCR) technology
• Expected 1.5B lbs copper over 22-year life
• Boosts US manufacturing, cuts reliance on imports

Pulse Analysis

The United States has struggled to expand its domestic copper production even as the metal becomes critical for electric‑vehicle batteries, renewable‑energy infrastructure, and advanced electronics. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence notes that while the U.S. can meet roughly 146% of its copper demand through mining and scrap, a significant share of refined copper still depends on foreign smelters. In this context, Taseko’s Florence mine marks the first greenfield copper project to reach commercial output in nearly two decades, offering a fresh source of LME‑grade cathodes that can be sourced locally.

Florence’s distinguishing feature is its use of in‑situ copper recovery (ISCR), a process that leaches copper directly from the ore body and recycles the solution underground, reducing surface disturbance and energy consumption compared with conventional heap leaching and smelting. The plant’s electrowinning facility, now in commercial operation, is designed to produce up to 85 million pounds of Grade A copper annually, positioning the site as the third‑largest U.S. cathode producer. Over a projected 22‑year life, the mine is expected to yield at least 1.5 billion pounds of copper, all of which will remain in the United States, bolstering the domestic supply chain for sectors ranging from automotive to aerospace.

Strategically, Florence advances Taseko’s ambition to become a leading North‑American copper supplier while aligning with U.S. policy priorities on critical minerals and supply‑chain resilience. By keeping the entire value chain—from extraction to refining—onshore, the project mitigates geopolitical risks associated with imported refined copper and supports the nation’s push for greater self‑sufficiency in high‑tech manufacturing. As demand for copper accelerates, the Florence operation could serve as a template for future low‑impact, domestically focused mining ventures.