Building a copper backbone
As demand for clean energy technologies increases, from wind turbines to electric vehicles, a secure copper supply chain is becoming increasingly strategic. Bechtel’s appointment by Harmony follows the successful completion of the front-end engineering design (FEED) phase of the project, which demonstrated the company’s ability to translate complex designs into viable and scalable procurement plans.
The Ewa Copper Mine Project will include copper concentrators and non-process infrastructure. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with first production targeted for 2028. Bechtel’s reach spans engineering, procurement and construction, all integrated into a single execution model designed to manage cost and schedule risk.
“Copper underpins modern infrastructure and the transition to a low carbon future, enabling advances in infrastructure, technology and electrification. This project will deliver lasting value to Queensland through jobs and opportunities for regional suppliers,” Bechtel’s president of mining and metals Eilee McAdam said.
The project will strengthen Australia’s position in the global copper supply chain, while creating jobs and opportunities for regional suppliers. As Ailie points out, this regional commitment characterizes the company’s philosophy of balancing global supply assurance with localization goals. This is a modern expression of procurement as a means to deliver socio-economic value, rather than simply a source of cost efficiency.
