Escondida

Escondida is the world's largest producer of copper concentrates and cathodes.

Escondida at a glance

We operate and own 57.5% of the Escondida mine, a joint venture with Rio Tinto (30%) and Japan-based JECO Corp (12.5%). Escondida’s two pits feed three concentrator plants, as well as two leaching operations (oxide and sulphide). The mine is an important part of the Chilean economy, accounting for several percentage points of GDP.

1990

Mine construction was completed in 1990.

10

We ceased extracting groundwater for operational purposes 10 years ahead of schedule.

100%

We announced a move to 100% renewable power by the mid-2020s.

Escondida is a copper porphyry deposit located in the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile, 170km south-east of Antofagasta. The name Escondida means 'hidden’ in Spanish. It derives from the main orebody which doesn't outcrop on the surface but is hidden by hundreds of meters of overburden.

Copper

Copper is used in everyday household products due to its electricity conducting, corrosion resistance and antimicrobial properties.

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Solving complex water-related problems requires diverse and collaborative teams, bringing together our multidisciplinary technical skills.

Adriana Sanchez Principal Hydrogeology, Minerals Americas

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