Arizona emerges as center of U.S. copper renaissance

Arizona is emerging as a central hub for a copper renaissance in the United States, as companies accelerate production to reduce reliance on imports. This shift is driven by the growing demand for copper in sectors such as artificial intelligence, electrification, and defense.

Gunnison Copper is currently advancing its Gunnison project in Arizona through expanded drilling programs. Starting in September, the company plans to increase its drilling rigs from two to six, targeting 120 drill holes totaling 42,000 meters with a reserved budget of $15 million. These efforts include metallurgical work and resource upgrades.

Other major developments in the region include the Resolution Copper project, a joint venture between BHP and Rio Tinto. As one of the world’s largest untapped copper resources, Resolution Copper is estimated to have an average copper grade of 1.5% and could potentially meet up to 25 percent of U.S. copper demand over a 40-year operational lifespan.