Copper wire theft is posing a significant challenge to Los Angeles’s push towards a zero-emissions future. Thieves are targeting electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, cutting cords and breaking into chargers with hacksaws, according to KABC. This vandalism is costly to repair and threatens the city’s goal of expanding EV infrastructure before the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Matt Petersen, CEO of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, noting that even LACI’s facilities in the Arts District have been targeted multiple times. There are currently 60,630 public and workplace EV chargers in the greater Los Angeles area, making them accessible targets for thieves.
The rise in copper prices is contributing to the increase in thefts. Aric Ohana of Ohana Mobility.AI explained that the thefts are becoming more common as more chargers are installed in public spaces. Kameale Terry, CEO of Charger Help, highlighted the financial burden on those who deploy charging stations, with repair costs ranging from $650 to $1,500 depending on the type of charger.
To combat this issue, new legislation is being implemented. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed AB 476 into law, which imposes stricter penalties on those purchasing stolen metal. Additionally, EV charging companies are developing innovative solutions to prevent cable theft, such as cables that disconnect easily, wireless charging options, and protective measures like ink-spraying cables.
The bipartisan bill, supported by LACI and other local leaders, aims to strengthen enforcement tools and protect California’s critical infrastructure. Petersen stated, “LACI was proud to sponsor Assemblymember González’s critical legislation to reduce the theft and loss of critical infrastructure for our communities.”
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