Thieves Target EV Chargers in LA, Copper Theft Sparks Crisis

URGENT UPDATE: Thieves are wreaking havoc on electric vehicle (EV) chargers across Los Angeles, targeting vital infrastructure for copper wire. This alarming trend poses a significant threat to the city’s transition to a zero-emissions future, with reports of vandalized stations surfacing just hours ago.

Authorities confirm that thieves are using hacksaws to cut cords and break into charging stations, leading to costly repairs that could derail progress. With 60,630 public and workplace EV chargers in the greater Los Angeles region, the surge in copper thefts raises serious concerns as the city prepares for the upcoming 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Matt Peterson, CEO of the L.A. Cleantech Incubator (LACI), expressed urgency about the situation. “All our focus is, ‘How do we accelerate transportation electrification?’ We don’t want to show the world a scene filled with vandalized EV chargers,” he stated. Peterson’s own non-profit has fallen victim to these thefts multiple times.

According to Aric Ohana from Ohana Mobility.AI, the rise in metal prices and the increased visibility of chargers make them easy targets for thieves. “Cutting a connector doesn’t fall under warranty, making repairs fall heavily on the operators,” he explained. The financial impact is staggering, with costs for repairs ranging from $650 to $700 for slower chargers and as much as $1,500 for DC fast chargers.

In a proactive response, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed AB 476, which aims to enforce stricter penalties against those purchasing stolen metal. This legislation is crucial, given that thieves are not gaining much from these materials.

Innovative solutions are emerging among EV charging companies to combat the escalating thefts. These include developing cables that can disconnect from chargers, wireless charging options, and protective measures such as an ink-spraying cable that activates when cut. Kameale Terry, CEO of Charger Help, emphasized the need for durable products, saying, “We must ensure that we build better products where you can’t just simply cut the connector.”

The community around EVs is rallying to support these initiatives, recognizing the urgency of protecting crucial charging infrastructure. As the situation develops, stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the escalating crisis of copper theft in Los Angeles.

Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking situation as authorities and organizations work to safeguard the future of electric transportation in the city.