Highland Copper Receives Approval for Updated Air Permit Application

Rhea-AI Summary

Highland Copper (TSXV: HI; OTCQB: HDRSF) has received approval for its updated air permit from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for the Copperwood Project. The new permit, which replaces the 2018 version, allows the project to supplement main electrical supply with on-site generators when needed.

The approval process included a public comment period ending December 10, 2024, and a virtual public hearing on October 30, 2024. EGLE's Air Quality Division formally approved the application on February 27, 2025, following review of all submitted comments.

Positive

• Obtained important environmental permit approval for Copperwood Project
• Added operational flexibility with backup power generation capability

Negative

• None.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Highland Copper Company Inc. (TSXV: HI; OTCQB: HDRSF) (“Highland Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the approval of its updated air permit application (known as Permit to Install in Michigan) from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

This newly issued air permit replaces the existing permit granted to the Copperwood Project (“Copperwood” or the “Project”) in 2018. The updated permit provides flexibility for the Project to supplement incoming power from the main electrical supply with on-site generators when needed, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy strategy for operations.

As part of the state and federal permitting process, EGLE held a public comment period that concluded on December 10, 2024, and conducted a virtual public hearing on October 30, 2024. Following a thorough review and careful consideration of all comments submitted, EGLE’s Air Quality Division (AQD) formally approved the application on February 27, 2025.

Barry O’Shea, CEO of Highland Copper, commented: "We are pleased to receive this approval from EGLE, which reflects the thorough and fair regulatory review process in Michigan. The issuance of this permit underscores that Copperwood has been designed to meet rigorous environmental standards and operate responsibly within the community. We appreciate the continued support from state authorities and the local community, whose engagement has been instrumental throughout this process."

Highland Copper remains committed to advancing the Copperwood Project responsibly, ensuring that development aligns with government regulations, environmental best practices, and community expectations. The Company looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with all stakeholders as it progresses toward bringing Copperwood into production.

About Highland Copper Company

Highland Copper Company Inc. is a Canadian company focused on exploring and developing copper projects in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, U.S.A. The Company owns the Copperwood deposit through long-term mineral leases and 34% of the White Pine North project through a joint venture with Kinterra Copper USA LLC. The Company also owns surface rights securing access to the Copperwood deposit and providing space for infrastructure at Copperwood as required. The Company has 736,363,619 common shares issued and outstanding. Its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "HI" and trade on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol "HDRSF."

More information about the Company is available on the Company’s website at www.highlandcopper.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information or media requests, please contact:

Barry O’Shea, CEO
Email: info@highlandcopper.com
Website: www.highlandcopper.com

FAQ

What is the significance of Highland Copper's (HDRSF) new air permit approval?

The new air permit allows Copperwood Project to use on-site generators alongside main power supply, ensuring reliable energy operations and compliance with environmental standards.

When did EGLE approve Highland Copper's (HDRSF) updated air permit?

EGLE's Air Quality Division approved the updated air permit on February 27, 2025.

What was the public consultation process for Highland Copper's (HDRSF) air permit?

The process included a public comment period ending December 10, 2024, and a virtual public hearing on October 30, 2024.

How does the 2025 air permit differ from Highland Copper's (HDRSF) previous permit?

The 2025 permit replaces the 2018 version and adds flexibility to supplement main power with on-site generators when needed.