CASA GRANDE, Ariz. — Arizona’s role as a national copper powerhouse continues to strengthen as Ivanhoe Electric Inc. advances plans for its Santa Cruz copper mine in Casa Grande, positioning it to begin construction sometime next year.

The company recently released its final engineering study for the project, outlining how the underground mine will produce copper cathode — copper metal created onsite without the need for offsite smelting or refining.

The final product, the company said, will be “ready for immediate sale to American industry from our mine gate,” positioning the project as a key domestic supply source at a time when U.S. demand for copper is rapidly growing.

Copper: Critical to Arizona’s Future

Domestic copper production has become a national priority as the U.S. works to secure supply chains for critical materials. Copper is essential for building electric vehicles, renewable energy grids, semiconductor production, and defense technology — all sectors seeing massive investment in Arizona.

The Santa Cruz project is also strategically located near other major infrastructure in Pinal County, an area that has seen rapid growth in high-tech manufacturing, battery plants, and data centers in recent years.

Engineering and Next Steps

Ivanhoe Electric’s final engineering study highlights an underground design focused on minimizing surface disturbance and streamlining production. By producing copper cathode directly onsite, the mine will eliminate the need for offsite smelting — reducing emissions and transportation costs while supplying copper metal that’s immediately ready for the market.

The company is expected to continue regulatory work, secure permits, and finalize construction plans in the coming months, with groundbreaking targeted for 2026.

Part of a Bigger Domestic Push

The Santa Cruz project comes as the federal government has increased its focus on expanding domestic copper mining and processing capabilities to support the energy transition and reduce dependence on foreign sources.

“Copper is one of the most critical elements of the clean energy supply chain,” Ivanhoe Electric’s statement noted. The company aims to help close the gap between domestic supply and skyrocketing demand driven by EVs, solar and wind power, advanced computing, and national defense.

Economic and Community Impact

If built as planned, the Casa Grande mine would generate hundreds of construction jobs and long-term operational roles. Local leaders say it will boost tax revenues and help support new infrastructure needs in the growing region.

Environmental groups and local stakeholders will continue to monitor the project’s next phases as final permitting moves forward.

Stay tuned for updates as Ivanhoe Electric works to break ground on the Santa Cruz mine, adding another major piece to Arizona’s copper legacy and the nation’s critical minerals push.

Originally reported by Hailey Mensik in ABC 15 News.