Gord Neal, CEO of World Copper, joins us to talk about the future of copper! Gord shares his extensive experience and background in mining commodities. He emphasized copper's crucial role in the transition to clean energy, particularly for electric vehicles, power grids, and renewable energy infrastructure. Gord also talks about the potential impact of the new U.S. administration on mining policies, and how regulatory streamlining could accelerate domestic production and strengthen U.S. energy security. Today we discuss...

• Gord Neal, CEO of World Copper, has 25 years of experience in mining, specializing in metals like gold, silver, copper, and uranium.
• He was a founder of Mag Silver, growing it from a $50M to a $2.5B market cap company, and led New Pacific Metals to a $1.2B valuation.
• Copper is critical for the transition from fossil fuels to electric energy, as EVs and grid upgrades require significantly more copper than traditional vehicles and infrastructure.
• The supply of copper is insufficient to meet the demand for 2030 and 2050 energy transition goals, requiring urgent increases in mining output.
• Nuclear power is essential to meeting global energy needs, as wind and solar alone cannot provide sufficient or reliable power.
• Copper remains the preferred metal for electrical applications due to its conductivity, durability, and cost-effectiveness compared to alternatives like silver.
• The global copper deficit is around 100M tons, with new mining projects facing long lead times and high costs.
• The U.S. needs to accelerate mining permits, particularly in copper-rich states like Arizona, to secure domestic supply.
• The new Trump administration is expected to push for more mining and energy independence, potentially speeding up federal land permitting.
• Copper demand is rising due to the shift toward electrification, requiring more wiring for vehicles and energy grids.
• The U.S. power grid requires significant upgrades to support an electric vehicle transition, necessitating vast amounts of copper.
• The slow progress in energy grid modernization is due to high costs, bureaucratic red tape, and lack of large-scale energy storage solutions.
• Political and regulatory challenges impact the speed at which mining projects and energy infrastructure can develop.

Why Domestic Copper Will Be More Important Than Ever in 2025

By Gordon Neal

As the global economy pivots toward a greener, more sustainable future, copper has emerged as one of the most critical materials for the 21st century. Its unique properties—including high electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and recyclability—make it indispensable for a wide range of applications, from renewable energy systems to electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced electronics. However, as we approach 2025, a confluence of factors underscores the growing importance of domestic copper production.

The Green Energy Revolution

The global push to achieve net-zero emissions is driving unprecedented demand for clean energy technologies. Solar panels, wind turbines, and EVs all rely heavily on copper. For instance, a single wind turbine can require up to four tons of copper, while EVs use two to three times more copper than internal combustion engine vehicles. This demand is set to skyrocket as governments implement ambitious climate targets and accelerate the energy transition.

Domestic copper production will play a pivotal role in meeting this demand sustainably. Importing copper from distant sources not only involves higher transportation costs but also increases carbon emissions. By bolstering local copper mining and refining, countries can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring a reliable supply of this essential resource.

Supply Chain Resilience

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, and the copper industry was no exception. Disruptions in mining and shipping caused price volatility and supply shortages, highlighting the risks of over-reliance on foreign sources. As geopolitical tensions and trade disputes continue to pose threats, securing domestic copper production has become a strategic imperative.

By investing in domestic mining projects, countries can mitigate supply chain risks and ensure a stable supply of copper for critical industries. This is particularly important as demand for copper is expected to outpace supply in the coming years, potentially leading to significant market imbalances.

Economic and Job Growth

Domestic copper production is not just about securing resources; it also drives economic growth and job creation. Mining projects stimulate local economies, providing employment opportunities and supporting auxiliary industries. Moreover, investments in advanced mining technologies and sustainable practices can position domestic producers as global leaders in environmentally responsible copper production.

Technological Innovation and Sustainability

The mining industry is undergoing a transformation, with new technologies and practices aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving efficiency. Domestic producers are at the forefront of this innovation, developing methods to extract and process copper more sustainably.

For instance, in-situ recovery (ISR) is an emerging technique that allows copper to be extracted with minimal surface disturbance and water usage. Technologies like ISR can make domestic copper production more competitive while aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. By investing in such innovations, countries can strengthen their position in the global copper market and support the transition to a sustainable future.

National Security and Strategic Importance

Copper is not only vital for green energy but also for national security. It is a critical material for defense systems, telecommunications, and infrastructure. As global tensions rise, ensuring a domestic supply of copper has become a matter of strategic importance.

While China is not the largest miner of copper ore (that title belongs to countries like Chile and Peru), it is the world's leading refiner of copper. The country imports significant amounts of copper concentrate and processes it domestically, controlling a substantial portion of the refined copper supply.

China has heavily invested in copper mines across Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Through these investments, Chinese companies secure access to raw materials, often locking in supply agreements that can bypass global markets.

China's dominance extends to the production of downstream copper products like wires, cables, and components, which are essential for electronics and energy technologies.

Relying on imports for such a critical resource exposes countries to potential supply disruptions. By prioritizing domestic production, governments can safeguard their industries and infrastructure against external shocks, ensuring continuity in times of crisis.

Recycling and Circular Economy

While mining remains essential, recycling plays an increasingly important role in meeting copper demand. Copper is 100% recyclable without loss of quality, making it a cornerstone of the circular economy. Domestic recycling initiatives can complement mining efforts, reducing the need for raw material extraction and minimizing environmental impact.

Countries with robust recycling programs and infrastructure can achieve greater resource efficiency and lower their reliance on imports. By integrating recycling into domestic supply chains, we can create a more sustainable and resilient copper industry.

The Role of Policy and Regulation

Governments have a critical role to play in supporting domestic copper production. Policies that incentivize mining investments, streamline permitting processes, and promote sustainability can unlock the full potential of local resources. Additionally, trade policies that protect domestic producers from unfair competition are essential for maintaining a competitive edge.

A balanced approach that fosters growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship is crucial. By working closely with policymakers, industry leaders can ensure that domestic copper production aligns with national goals and global standards.

The stakes for domestic copper production have never been higher. The transition to a green economy, coupled with supply chain challenges and strategic considerations, emphasizes the critical importance of securing a reliable and sustainable supply of copper. By investing in domestic resources, embracing innovation, and fostering collaboration between industry and government, we can meet the growing demand for copper while building a more resilient and sustainable future.