In France, a new invisible battleground for motorists is emerging around electric vehicle charging stations: copper theft. As the red metal soars on global markets, reaching over $12,000 per tonne, it has become the prime target for criminals seeking quick profit.
Copper, a hidden treasure
Copper is ubiquitous in our electrical infrastructures. An ideal conductor, it powers the cables and components of charging stations, which transform energy from the grid to power our electric cars. This precious metal, often concealed under an insulating sheath, attracts thieves like moths to a flame. Even though the amount of recoverable copper in a charging cable is limited, the resale of this metal remains a strong economic incentive for some criminals.
Charging stations, whether installed in a municipal parking lot, a commercial area, or a motorway service area, contain copper cables and components that are easily accessible without stringent security measures. The situation is alarming: these acts of vandalism are on the rise in several departments, such as Seine-et-Marne or Nord, and are now reported “regularly” by operators and professional representatives.
The cost to replace a stolen or severed cable can quickly escalate. According to operators, it can range between €1,500 and €4,000 per cable, not to mention the impact on operations and the unavailability of the station. In a station with four charging points, the damage can reach between €12,000 and €32,000 or more. These figures fuel the frustration of users who, upon arriving at a charging point, sometimes find a station out of service due to a lack of cable.
Organised networks
This type of theft is part of a broader context: in France, copper theft affects numerous infrastructures, from telecom lines to public lighting, and has increased in recent years, driven by high metal prices and informal resale networks. The phenomenon has become so concerning that it is no longer just about isolated individuals, but rather organised networks.
These networks do not settle for a simple cutter. They equip themselves with sophisticated tools to quickly cut cables and leave with several dozen kilos of copper. With such organisation, the risk of getting caught decreases considerably for these professional thieves.
France stands out as one of the European countries most equipped with charging infrastructures. According to the latest surveys, the country had over 184,000 public charging points by the end of November 2025, spread across several tens of thousands of stations accessible to users. Unfortunately, this expanding network, intended to support the rise of electric mobility, offers more potential targets for copper thieves.
Solutions to face the threat
In light of this concerning situation, operators and local authorities are multiplying initiatives to combat these thefts. Strengthening the mechanical protections of cables, installing alarms, smart cameras, or even using alternative materials to make components less attractive: all means are good to protect this crucial infrastructure.
Some experiments aim to make direct access to copper more difficult, favouring reinforced sheaths or locking systems integrated into the stations. The objective is clear: to secure these charging points and ensure an optimal user experience. Because the energy transition relies on a reliable and available charging network for everyone.
An economic and social issue
These acts of vandalism are not just a simple nuisance; they also have a significant economic impact. The costs incurred by replacing stolen cables and the unavailability of charging stations can hinder the growth of electric mobility. Users, already facing challenges regarding autonomy and infrastructure, find themselves confronted with out-of-service stations, exacerbating their frustration.
The situation raises crucial questions: how can we ensure the security of these essential installations for the future of electric mobility? How can we reconcile sustainable development and infrastructure protection? The answer may lie in a combination of technological innovations and better user awareness. After all, if we want to move towards an electric future, we must also preserve our resources.
Towards a collective awareness
It is time for all stakeholders — governments, local authorities, businesses, and users — to recognise the stakes represented by these copper thefts. The fight against this crime must be collective and proactive. Awareness campaigns could also help inform the public about the importance of reporting any suspicious activity around charging stations.
In the meantime, we can only hope that the measures put in place will bear fruit and that these acts of vandalism will become a thing of the past. Because, in this race towards sustainable mobility, every charging point counts — literally.
