Hudbay Breaks Ground on Copper Mountain Expansion to Boost Copper Output
Mining News | 2026-06-18 07:13:18
According to rough estimates, the expansion project will contribute more than C$11.5 billion to British Columbia’s GDP, in addition to supporting over 800 direct jobs.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Hudbay Minerals has officially launched construction of the New Ingerbelle expansion project at its Copper Mountain mine in British Columbia. The project is expected to extend the operation’s mine life beyond 2040 alongside boosting long-term copper production.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by provincial officials, Indigenous leaders, and regional stakeholders, including British Columbia’s Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, Jagrup Brar, and Chief Charles Allison of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band.
The New Ingerbelle expansion will provide access to higher-grade mineralization and ensure improved operational efficiency through a significantly lower stripping ratio. Based on existing reserves, the project is expected to produce around 750,000 tonnes of copper, 900,000 ounces of gold, and 5.5 million ounces of silver over the mine’s lifetime.
Hudbay noted that the utilization of the existing infrastructure at the Copper Mountain operation, including the mill and mining equipment, will help it to optimize project costs. The project had recently obtained key mining permits from British Columbia’s Major Mines Office, which added it to the province’s list of priority resource projects.
According to rough estimates, the expansion project will contribute more than C$11.5 billion to British Columbia’s GDP, in addition to supporting over 800 direct jobs.
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What is the most significant long-term benefit of Hudbay’s New Ingerbelle expansion project?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the New Ingerbelle expansion project?
The project aims to extend the life of the Copper Mountain mine beyond 2040 while increasing long-term copper production.
- What minerals will be produced from the expansion project?
The project is expected to yield approximately 750,000 tonnes of copper, 900,000 ounces of gold, and 5.5 million ounces of silver.
- What operational advantages does the project offer?
It provides access to higher-grade mineralization and a lower stripping ratio, improving mining efficiency and economics.
