WASHINGTON, DC — Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kirsten Sinema have introduced a new initiative aimed at enhancing clean copper mining in eastern Arizona, a move critical to U.S. national security. This initiative is backed by the bipartisan infrastructure laws that Sinema led and Kelly helped shape.
The project focuses on generating clean energy while implementing battery storage systems at two active copper mines in Graham and Greenlee counties. This approach is designed to cut down emissions and facilitate the extraction of 25 million pounds of copper annually, which was previously deemed unsustainable. Freeport McMoran’s Morenci and Safford Operations are set to adopt these storage systems.
“This project will responsibly and safely fortify Arizona’s status as a leading state in domestic copper production, employing innovative strategies,” Kelly remarked. He emphasized that these laws continue to foster job creation in Arizona while promoting future technology advancements.
Sinema, who co-authored the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, added, “I worked on this bipartisan infrastructure law to facilitate Arizona projects that propel economic growth. It’s gratifying to see my policies enhance copper production, bolster national security, advance clean energy, and create over 100 jobs in Arizona.”
This endeavor, funded under the Department of Energy’s Clean Energy Demonstration Program, aims to enhance workforce development by ensuring energy resilience and reliability. It also seeks to reduce emissions from mining activities by minimizing dependence on site backup generators, showcasing a commitment to local economic growth and community investment.
Additionally, Kelly and Sinema have secured significant funding within the bipartisan infrastructure law for research on crucial minerals and clean energy supply chains. This includes $3 billion designated for battery material processing grants, $3 billion for battery manufacturing and recycling grants, $320 million for the Earth Mapping Resource Initiative, $167 million for establishing the USGS Energy and Mineral Research Facility, $140 million for a rare earth demonstration facility, $750 million for advanced energy manufacturing and recycling grants, and $100 million for research on important mineral mining and recycling.
Sinema played a pivotal role in bipartisan negotiations alongside Ohio Republican Senator Rob Portman, which involved Kelly and both parties in the Senate.
The bipartisan infrastructure law has garnered support from numerous organizations, including the US Chamber of Commerce, Business Roundtable, National Manufacturers Association, AFL-CIO, National Retail Federation, Bipartisan Policy Center, and various unions and industry associations, highlighting a broad coalition backing these initiatives.
