Copper, known for its high electrical conductivity and durability, has become one of the most sought-after metals in the recycling industry. Scrap copper holds significant value in Canada, where the demand spans across industries like construction, electronics, and automotive. This article delves into the current state of scrap copper prices across Canada, offering insights into market dynamics, regional price variations, and practical tips for maximizing returns on scrap copper sales.
Market Overview
The scrap copper market in Canada is influenced by several factors including global copper demand, currency exchange rates, local industrial activity, and environmental policies promoting recycling. Prices can fluctuate daily or weekly, reflecting changes in these variables.
Economic Conditions: With economic growth, the demand for copper in manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure projects increases, pushing up scrap prices.
Global Supply and Demand: Copper is traded globally, and international events like geopolitical tensions can impact prices.
Environmental Regulations: Stricter environmental laws increase the appeal of recycling, potentially elevating scrap copper prices.
Technological Advances: Improvements in recycling technology can lower processing costs, affecting scrap metal pricing.
Current Scrap Copper Prices in Canada
As of early January 2025, the average price range for scrap copper across Canada varies significantly based on quality, type (such as No.1 Heavy Scrap Copper), and location:
No.1 Heavy Scrap Copper: Typically ranges from CAD 3.50 to CAD 4.52 per pound. This grade includes clean, unalloyed copper solids, often from bus bars, commutator segments, and clean copper pipes or tubing without any burnt or brittle wire.
No.2 Copper: Slightly less pure or with some contaminants, this grade's price typically sits between CAD 3.00 to CAD 4.00 per pound.
Regional Price Variations
Here's an overview of how scrap copper prices can vary by province:
British Columbia: High demand due to tech and construction sectors, with prices around CAD 3.80 to CAD 4.30 per pound.
Ontario: A hub for manufacturing and automotive industries, prices here can range from CAD 3.60 to CAD 4.40 per pound.
Alberta: Influenced by oil and gas sectors, prices hover around CAD 3.50 to CAD 4.20 per pound.
Quebec: With a strong aerospace and manufacturing base, prices are competitive at CAD 3.65 to CAD 4.35 per pound.
Nova Scotia: Less industrial activity but still significant in construction, prices range from CAD 3.40 to CAD 4.10 per pound.
Saskatchewan: Prices can be lower due to less industrial activity, around CAD 3.30 to CAD 4.00 per pound.
Manitoba: Similar to Saskatchewan, with prices from CAD 3.40 to CAD 4.10 per pound.
New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Labrador: Prices here can be slightly lower, with an average of CAD 3.20 to CAD 3.90 per pound, due to smaller market sizes.
