In Los Angeles, the rise of electric vehicle (EV) adoption and the push towards a zero-emissions future is being threatened by a surge in copper theft from EV charging stations. Thieves are targeting the copper wire in charging stations, cutting cords and even breaking into chargers using hacksaws, resulting in costly repairs. The problem has become so widespread that local leaders are calling on Governor Gavin Newsom to crack down on copper wire theft. According to the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), there are over 60,000 public and workplace EV chargers in the greater Los Angeles region, making them easily accessible targets for thieves.
The thefts are not only causing financial losses but also hindering the city’s efforts to promote EV adoption. The CEO of LACI, Matt Petersen, emphasized the importance of preventing copper wire theft, stating that the city wants to showcase its commitment to sustainability during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The cost of repairing vandalized charging stations can range from $650 to $1,500, depending on the type of charger. To address this issue, Governor Newsom recently signed into law AB 476, which brings stricter penalties and enforcement to those buying and selling stolen scrap metal.
In response to the copper theft problem, EV charging companies are developing innovative solutions to prevent cables from being cut. These include cables that can disconnect from the charger, wireless charging, and more durable protection for cords, such as a cable that sprays ink when cut. The CEO of Charger Help, Kameale Terry, emphasized the need to think creatively and develop better products that can prevent theft. By quantifying the problem and finding solutions, the EV community is working to prevent copper wire theft and ensure a smooth transition to a zero-emissions future. Overall, the city’s goal of promoting EV adoption and reducing emissions is being threatened by copper theft, but with new efforts underway to prevent theft and innovative solutions being developed, there is hope for a more sustainable future.