Certification submission validates delivery on commitments supporting domestic copper production and U.S. critical mineral supply chains
Phoenix, Arizona--(Newsfile Corp. - July 9, 2026) - Gunnison Copper Corp. (TSX: GCU) (OTCQB: GCUMF) (FSE: 3XS0) ("Gunnison" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has submitted its certification documentation to the U.S. Department of Energy ("DOE") for the Section 48C Advanced Energy Project Tax Credit awarded to the Company's Johnson Camp Mine ("JCM") in Arizona, a key milestone towards monetization that validates the successful execution of the Company's commitments under the program and the commencement of domestic copper production.
The submission confirms that the project has met the requirements outlined in the Company's 48C application, including placing the eligible assets into service and commencing production in 2025.
"We are deeply grateful to the Department of Energy for supporting our project and believe certification proves our ability to successfully deliver on our commitments to the U.S. Government," said Craig Hallworth, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gunnison Copper. "The Johnson Camp Mine is now producing and selling copper in Arizona consistent with our vision to fuel America's security and prosperity through a resilient domestic copper supply that powers innovation, industry, and future generations."
The Section 48C Advanced Energy Project Tax Credit program was established to support investments in domestic manufacturing, critical minerals production, and advanced energy projects that strengthen U.S. supply chains and enhance energy security. Gunnison and Nuton were selected to receive US$13.9 million in tax credits under the program, with the certification submission representing an important step toward the sale and monetization of the certified credits.
The Company's Johnson Camp Mine achieved first production in 2025 and is currently producing copper cathode from run-of-mine oxide material and Nuton® bioleaching technology of sulfide material. JCM has created skilled employment opportunities, generated investment throughout southeastern Arizona, and re-started copper production in the Cochise Mining District. Through the deployment of Nuton's sulfide bioleaching technology alongside conventional SX/EW processing, the operation is also advancing a lower environmental impact approach to domestic copper production.
The project also reflects the benefits of collaboration between government and industry to accelerate investment in strategically important domestic resources.