Codelco Partners with I-Pulse to Pioneer Energy-Efficient Mining Technologies

Codelco

Joint development to focus on pulsed power innovations that could cut comminution energy use by up to 80%

Codelco, the world’s largest copper producer, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with I-Pulse Inc, a US-based high-technology firm chaired by industry veteran Robert Friedland, to explore the application of disruptive technologies in mining. The strategic agreement signals a move toward transformative and sustainable mining practices, Kallanish reports.

The collaboration is focused on deploying pulsed power technology in rock fragmentation, cutting, and drilling. These techniques could drastically reduce energy consumption in comminution—the most electricity-intensive stage in mining—by up to 80%, significantly lowering the carbon footprint of copper production.

Pioneering Sustainability for the Future of Copper Mining

Máximo Pacheco, Chairman of Codelco’s board, highlighted the deal as a landmark in the company’s vision to become a pillar of sustainable mining. "This alliance reflects our commitment to innovation and aligns with our goal of being a responsible global leader," he said.

I-Pulse's system compresses and rapidly discharges small quantities of electrical energy to produce ultra-high power pulses, enabling efficient rock breakage without the environmental drawbacks of traditional methods.

The collaboration aims to address structural challenges in large-scale copper mining, including declining ore grades and the aging of deposits, while ensuring environmentally responsible operations amid the growing demand for critical minerals in the global energy transition.

Long-Term Goal: Clean Energy Supply Chain Transformation

Both companies intend to accelerate the commercialization and deployment of these technologies, as copper plays a critical role in electrification and renewable energy infrastructure. The partnership also aligns with Chile’s national objectives to modernize mining and reduce environmental impacts.

“Providing the minerals for the clean energy transition cannot come at any cost,” Pacheco emphasized. “We must transform how we mine, and I-Pulse offers a viable path forward.”