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Electrification and Rise in Circular Economy are projected to fuel the growth of the US Copper Scrap Market at a CAGR of 6.703% during the forecast period 2025 to 2035

Report Details:
15 Companies Covered
100 Pages
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Market Research Future (MRFR) has published a research report on the “US Copper Scrap Market” that contains information from 2019 to 2035.


US Copper Scrap Market is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.703% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035.


MRFR recognizes the following companies as the key players in the Slovenia Liquified Petroleum Gas market — Radius Recycling, Inc, Nucor, Sims Limited, CMC, OmniSource, LLC, United Scrap Metal, Steel Dynamics, Metalico, Inc, SCHUPAN, SA Recycling LLC


US Copper Scrap Market Highlights           


US Copper Scrap Market is accounted to register a CAGR of 6.703% during the forecast period and is estimated to reach USD 21,195.07 Million by 2035.


In the United States, the increasing demand for copper is being driven by the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs), the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, and the ongoing modernization of the national power grid. Copper’s unmatched electrical conductivity makes it indispensable across a wide range of clean energy technologies, including solar panels, wind turbines, EV batteries, inverters, and high-voltage transmission lines. As a result, the demand for reliable, scalable sources of copper has surged—placing recycled copper (copper scrap) at the forefront of the U.S. energy transition strategy.


Copper scrap offers a low-carbon, energy-efficient alternative to virgin copper, helping meet growing material needs without increasing dependency on mining operations, which are both resource-intensive and environmentally impactful. Recycling copper uses up to 85% less energy than primary copper production and generates significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, making it a key enabler of national climate goals.


Moreover, there is a rising regulatory and corporate emphasis on sustainability, resource efficiency, and ethical sourcing. As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria become embedded in corporate procurement policies, major manufacturers—particularly in the automotive, electronics, and green technology sectors—are increasingly integrating recycled copper into their supply chains. This not only helps reduce operational carbon footprints but also aligns with broader circular economy principles by extending the life cycle of valuable materials.


In this context, copper scrap is no longer viewed merely as waste material but as a strategic resource—one that supports environmental objectives, ensures supply chain resilience, and contributes to the economic viability of the U.S. clean energy ecosystem.


Segment Analysis


The U.S. copper scrap market is categorized by source into Industrial Scrap and Post-Consumer Scrap, with Industrial Scrap accounting for the largest market share in 2024—reflecting global trends in efficient and high-quality copper recycling. Also known as "new scrap," industrial scrap is produced during manufacturing operations and includes materials such as cuttings, punch-outs, and offcuts from copper wires, tubes, and sheets. Its market dominance is attributed to its high purity, consistent availability, and minimal contamination, making it a preferred input for smelters and refiners focused on maximizing process efficiency and product quality in secondary copper production.


The U.S. copper scrap market is segmented by scrap grade into Bare Bright Copper, Grade #1 Copper, Grade #2 Copper, and other grades (including insulated wire, shred, and alloyed scrap). Among these, Grade #1 Copper holds the largest market share. This grade consists of clean, unalloyed copper—such as tubing or pipe—with minimal oxidation. It is widely favored in industries like construction and HVAC manufacturing, where a slightly lower purity than Bare Bright is acceptable, yet high conductivity and performance standards remain essential.


The U.S. copper scrap market is segmented by end-use into automotive, construction, electrical and electronics, renewable energy systems, and other industrial applications. As of 2024, the electrical and electronics and construction segments together accounted for the largest share of the market, in line with global trends where these sectors are the leading consumers of recycled copper, valued for its excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. Recycled copper plays a crucial role in advancing U.S. infrastructure development—from power grid upgrades to commercial and residential construction. Given the volatility of global copper prices, recycled copper has become an increasingly strategic choice in cost-sensitive industries like construction, where demand continues to rise due to sustained investments in infrastructure and urban expansion.


Key Findings of the Study



  • US Copper Scrap Market is expected to reach 21,195.07 USD Million by 2035, at a CAGR of 703% during the forecast period.

  • Based on Scrap Source, the Industrial Scrap segment was attributed to holding the largest market in 2024.

  • Based on Scrap Copper Grade, Grade # 1 Copper holds the largest market segment in 2024.

  • Based on End-Use, the Construction segment was attributed to holding the largest market in 2024.

  • Radius Recycling, Inc, Nucor, Sims Limited, CMC, OmniSource, LLC, United Scrap Metal, Steel Dynamics, Metalico, Inc, SCHUPAN, SA Recycling LLC are the key market players.


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