Anglo American Commits US$850 Million to Optimize Quellaveco

A Strategic Milestone for One of Peru’s Most Modern Mines
Anglo American marked a historic moment for Quellaveco after reaching its first one million tons of fine copper, reaffirming the operation as one of Peru’s most advanced mining assets. Built with US$5.5 billion investment delivered even through pandemic years—Quellaveco has become a reference point for technologically integrated, low-impact copper production. Company executives emphasized that the achievement reflects not only engineering capability but the country’s resilience in sustaining large-scale, long-term projects.

Optimization Plan Anchored in Efficiency and Sustainability
Between 2024 and 2026, the company will deploy an additional US$850 million to expand plant capacity, enhance operational reliability, and strengthen water- and energy-efficiency systems. The plan includes upgrades to drainage infrastructure, renewal of nearly 100 km of freshwater pipelines, improved pumping stations, expanded camp facilities, and automated sampling systems at port. These measures build on recent environmental approvals and aim to secure performance across Quellaveco’s projected 36-year mine life, with 33 years still ahead.

FutureSmart Mining and Shared-Value Delivery
Quellaveco operates on fully renewable energy (187 MW from Punta Lomitas) and maintains stringent water management—0.41 m³ per ton processed with 85% recirculation. The expanded Vizcachas dam also supports regional agriculture, illustrating a shared-infrastructure model that benefits Moquegua’s broader development. With autonomous fleets, remote “pit tech” operations, and advancing certifications like Copper Mark and IRMA, Anglo American positions Quellaveco as a source of future-ready copper— meeting rising global demand with traceability, innovation, and social-performance depth.