Florence, Arizona, January 23, 2026
Florence Copper, located south of Phoenix, has completed the construction program necessary for commercial copper production, set to commence in early 2026. This innovative mining project utilizes In-Situ Copper Recovery technology, significantly reducing environmental impact compared to traditional mining methods. It promises to support the local economy by creating jobs and contributing over $4.3 billion to Arizona’s GDP over its lifespan. As a testament to sustainable resource development, Florence Copper exemplifies how technological advancement can align with environmental stewardship and community benefit.
Phoenix, AZ – Florence, a community just south of Phoenix, is poised for a significant economic uplift as Florence Copper, an innovative mining operation, has achieved a major milestone, completing the construction program necessary to move into commercial copper production. This development signifies not just a local triumph but also a substantial boost for the broader Arizona AZ economy and a testament to entrepreneurial determination and the power of technological advancement in resource development.
The journey to commercial production exemplifies how private investment and cutting-edge engineering can unlock valuable resources while prioritizing responsible practices. This achievement reflects years of diligent work, demonstrating the resilience of businesses committed to long-term economic contributions and sustainable innovation.
Innovation Powers Arizona’s Copper Future
Florence Copper has officially completed the construction program required to advance to commercial operations in early 2026. This significant milestone follows the success of its Production Test Facility (PTF), which has already produced over one million pounds of copper on-site in Florence since 2019. The construction efforts focused on expanding the Florence Copper wellfield and developing a larger solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX/EW) plant.
The project, owned by Taseko Mines, employs a revolutionary method known as In-Situ Copper Recovery (ISCR). This advanced technology allows for the dissolution of copper in underground bedrock ore using a mixture of 99.5% water and 0.5% acid injected through wells. The copper-rich solution is then pumped to the surface for processing through the SX/EW facility to produce LME Grade A copper cathode. This modern approach to resource extraction demonstrates the potential for industries to evolve, embracing smarter, less intrusive methods.
Setting a New Standard for Responsible Mining
The ISCR process employed by Florence Copper represents a significant leap forward in environmental stewardship within the mining sector. Unlike conventional open-pit or underground mining, ISCR avoids large-scale surface disturbance, eliminating the need for blasting, loading, hauling, crushing, or conveying of mineralized material. This results in a considerably smaller environmental footprint, with no waste rock piles, heap leach piles, or tailings storage areas, and no alteration of the site’s topography.
Furthermore, this innovative technique is projected to achieve substantial reductions in environmental impact compared to traditional open-pit copper mines in Arizona. It is expected to lead to 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, 65% less energy consumption, and 78% less water consumed per pound of copper produced. The operation is committed to high levels of environmental protection and conservation, operating under stringent local, State, and federal regulations.
A Catalyst for Arizona’s Economic Growth
The Florence Copper project is set to deliver substantial economic benefits across Arizona, particularly for Phoenix AZ business and the surrounding communities. Over its projected 22-year mine life, the facility is expected to produce up to 85 million pounds of copper annually. This output would establish Florence Copper as the third-largest producer of copper cathode in the United States, bolstering domestic supply chains which are increasingly critical for national security and economic stability.
An updated Economic and Fiscal Impact Study by Arizona State University projects that Florence Copper will significantly enhance Arizona’s State GDP by a cumulative value exceeding $4.3 billion over the project’s lifespan, with more than $2.5 billion originating in Pinal County alone. The project is also forecast to generate approximately $2.2 billion in cumulative personal income for Arizona, including over $1.5 billion directed to workers and business owners in Pinal County. These figures highlight the immense potential for local prosperity through strategic private sector investments.
Creating Jobs and Community Opportunity
Florence Copper is a significant job creator, projected to support an annual average of 819 direct and indirect jobs across Arizona, with 498 of those in Pinal County. The company has already seen its workforce expand from 35 employees in early 2023 to over 160, with plans to add approximately 40 more direct positions in the coming months. A majority of these recent hires have come from Pinal County, underscoring the company’s commitment to local employment and workforce development. Entry-level positions offer competitive pay, starting at over $28 per hour.
Beyond direct employment, Florence Copper’s commitment extends to community involvement through the Florence Copper Community Foundation. This foundation provides resources and grants to local nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and civic groups, focusing on initiatives with long-term sustainability. This dedication to supporting local infrastructure and services is a hallmark of responsible corporate citizenship and contributes to the overall well-being of the region.
The nearing of commercial production for Florence Copper marks a pivotal moment for Phoenix small business, the Arizona economy, and the future of responsible resource development. By embracing entrepreneurial innovation and adhering to stringent environmental standards, this project demonstrates how economic growth can go hand-in-hand with technological advancement and community benefit. As Florence Copper transitions into full operation, it will serve as a powerful engine for job creation, increased economic output, and a model for sustainable industry in the region. We encourage our readers to stay informed about the ongoing contributions of such vital local enterprises to the Arizona AZ entrepreneurs landscape and the broader state prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Florence Copper
- What is the Florence Copper project?
- The Florence Copper project is an advanced-stage in-situ copper recovery (ISCR) project located in Florence, Arizona, which has completed its construction program and is nearing commercial production of LME Grade A copper cathode.
- When is Florence Copper expected to begin commercial production?
- First production of copper cathode from the commercial facility is expected in early 2026.
- What mining technology does Florence Copper use?
- Florence Copper utilizes In-Situ Copper Recovery (ISCR) and Solvent Extraction/Electrowinning (SX/EW) processing, a low-impact method that involves dissolving copper in underground bedrock and bringing it to the surface as a solution.
- What are the environmental benefits of the ISCR technology?
- The ISCR method results in a significantly smaller environmental footprint compared to conventional mining, with 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, 65% less energy use, and 78% less water consumed per pound of copper produced. It also avoids open-pit excavation, waste rock piles, and tailings storage areas.
- How many jobs will Florence Copper create in Arizona?
- Florence Copper is projected to support an annual average of 819 direct and indirect jobs in Arizona, including 498 in Pinal County. The company’s workforce has grown from 35 employees in early 2023 to over 160 today, with plans to add approximately 40 more direct positions.
- What is the estimated economic impact of Florence Copper on Arizona’s GDP?
- The project is expected to enhance Arizona’s State GDP by a cumulative value of over $4.3 billion, with more than $2.5 billion originating in Pinal County, over its operational life.
- What is Florence Copper’s annual production capacity?
- When fully operational, Florence Copper is projected to have an annual production capacity of 85 million pounds of LME Grade A copper metal.
Key Features of the Florence Copper Project
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Florence, Arizona (south of Phoenix, between Phoenix and Tucson) | Local |
| Owner/Developer | Taseko Mines | N/A |
| Mining Technology | In-Situ Copper Recovery (ISCR) & Solvent Extraction/Electrowinning (SX/EW) | N/A |
| Commercial Production Start | Early 2026 | N/A |
| Annual Production Capacity (Fully Operational) | 85 million pounds of LME Grade A copper cathode | N/A |
| Mine Life | 22 years | N/A |
| Total Copper Production (over mine life) | Over 1.7 billion pounds | N/A |
| Projected Jobs Supported (Annual Average) | 819 direct and indirect jobs (Arizona), 498 in Pinal County | State-level, Local |
| Cumulative State GDP Enhancement | Over $4.3 billion (Arizona), over $2.5 billion (Pinal County) | State-level, Local |
| Cumulative Personal Income | Approx. $2.2 billion (Arizona), over $1.5 billion (Pinal County) | State-level, Local |
| Environmental Impact Reduction (vs. conventional AZ mines) | 75% fewer GHG emissions, 65% less energy, 78% less water | State-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
