Robert Friedland confirms we need a new generation of copper mines - to develop them we need higher copper prices.
Industry consolidation (eg. BHP & Anglo takeover) does not generate more copper metal units.
In the copper mining world, what is considered the most sustainable copper in the world? Robert Friedland says, "if you have the highest grade (%Cu) and green electrical energy, you win the game". Democratic Republic of Congo is the most sustainable place in the world to mine copper - due to the Hydroelectricity, which is where Ivanhoe has major interests.
Therefore, if Storm copper resource has the anticipated high copper grades at surface (to be confirmed this year), how does it rate in terms of green electrical energy for making sustainable copper?
Shallow copper deposits - simple mining with minimal over-burden removal.
Ore sorting processing route - only requires crushing, screening & conveying to classify the ore to the correct size. No high energy intensive grinding and pumping equipment required.
Short transportation route to copper market - bagged or bulk transport via ship to copper smelter.
No hydro power - wind or tidal options. Mainly diesel power generation.
