Red Chris Mine Expansion
Proponent
Newmont Mining & Imperial Metals
Sector
Mining
Location
Northwest British Columbia
Proponent
Newmont Mining & Imperial Metals
Sector
Mining
Location
Northwest British Columbia
Description
The Red Chris Mine Expansion Project is a copper and gold mine located near Iskut, within the Golden Triangle of Northern British Columbia, a region known for its rich mineral deposits. This major mine expansion project presents opportunities for critical minerals development, clean power transmission, Indigenous project leadership, and a potential new conservation area the size of Greece.
Developed in close collaboration with the Tahltan Nation, whose Traditional Territory overlaps directly with the mine site, the project supports reconciliation while strengthening Canada’s role as a reliable supplier of critical minerals essential for clean energy and global manufacturing.
The mine is also part of the proposed Northwest Critical Conservation Corridor, one of the transformative strategies referred to the Major Projects Office (MPO).
Description
The Red Chris Mine Expansion Project is a copper and gold mine located near Iskut, within the Golden Triangle of Northern British Columbia, a region known for its rich mineral deposits. This major mine expansion project presents opportunities for critical minerals development, clean power transmission, Indigenous project leadership, and a potential new conservation area the size of Greece.
Developed in close collaboration with the Tahltan Nation, whose Traditional Territory overlaps directly with the mine site, the project supports reconciliation while strengthening Canada’s role as a reliable supplier of critical minerals essential for clean energy and global manufacturing.
The mine is also part of the proposed Northwest Critical Conservation Corridor, one of the transformative strategies referred to the Major Projects Office (MPO).
Quick facts
- Boosting Canada’s copper production: Will increase Canada’s annual copper production by more than 15%.
- Cutting emissions: Will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 70% once operational.
- Job creation: Will employ about 1,500 workers during operation, with a peak of approximately 1,800 workers during construction.
Benefits
- This project will extend the lifespan of the mine by over a decade and increase Canada’s annual copper production by over 15%, supporting critical minerals demand for clean energy and manufacturing.
- Once operational, this project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 70%, aligning with Canada's clean energy and climate goals.
- The project aims to improve roads, power supply, and regional services supporting local communities.
- The project is expected to contribute substantial employment for Indigenous communities and provide numerous contracting and business opportunities to Indigenous-led businesses.
Latest updates
- On March 3, 2026, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources announced conditional approval of funding of $44,216,099 for Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) System Upgrades, which will enable the supply of up to 145MW to the Red Chris Mine Expansion.
- On September 11, 2025, the project was referred to the MPO.
- On July 15, 2024, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources announced conditional approval of a $195 million joint venture with B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to upgrade key highways in northwestern B.C. that will directly benefit the Red Chris Mine Expansion.
- The MPO is engaging with the Tahltan Nation and coordinating with the proponent, federal and provincial departments to support advancing the project. The province is also undergoing consultations with Indigenous Peoples as part of the environmental assessment process.
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