Copper Theft Threatens Electric Charging Infrastructure in France

The proliferation of copper cable thefts is destabilizing the economics of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in France. Since the start of the year, more than 400 complaints have been lodged with authorities, according to Charge France, an association representing key industry players. Installations at highway rest stops, commercial parking lots, and suburban areas are particularly vulnerable.

For operators, the financial damage extends far beyond the mere value of the stolen copper. When a charging station is vandalized, cables must be replaced, requiring specialized technicians. This, coupled with the extended downtime of the equipment, leads to lost revenue from charging services. Atlante, which manages approximately 1,800 stations in France, estimates these thefts now amount to several million euros in losses. TotalEnergies is also grappling with this challenge as it continues to invest in network expansion.

The issue arises as the profitability of charging infrastructure remains a significant concern. Establishing a charging station involves substantial investment in electrical equipment, grid connection, and site development. Vandalism adds an unpredictable cost, potentially slowing the rollout of new stations. Operators must now allocate more resources to monitoring and securing these facilities, an additional burden as developing a dense and reliable charging network is crucial for the growth of electric mobility.

The surge in copper's value is a primary driver behind this increase. The metal, essential for electrical infrastructure, is trading around 9,000 euros per ton. This high valuation makes cables highly attractive to theft rings, which already target railway, telecommunications, and energy infrastructure. Industry officials note that a few kilograms of copper can yield significant resale profits, with organized groups reportedly targeting multiple stations in a single night.