EV Charging Operators Deploy GPS to Combat Cable Theft

Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is increasingly targeted by thieves, prompting operators to introduce advanced security measures. A major charging station provider in the United Kingdom has announced the integration of GPS tracking technology into charging cables to deter and help apprehend cable thieves.

Theft of charging cables has become a persistent issue at EV charging stations, impacting both operators and users. These cables, essential for charging electric vehicles, are often stolen for the valuable metals they contain, particularly copper. The resulting losses extend beyond material value, as stolen cables render charging stations inoperable for up to two weeks, disrupting access for EV drivers and causing significant financial damage to operators.

Introducing Real-Time GPS Tracking

To counteract this trend, the UK-based charging infrastructure company is partnering with a technology firm specializing in asset tracking. The new solution involves equipping charging cables with GPS trackers that transmit location data every three seconds. These trackers are programmed to recognize their designated area, and any unauthorized movement triggers immediate alerts to a central monitoring center through SMS, email, and phone notifications. This enables rapid response by the authorities, increasing the chances of recovering stolen cables and deterring future thefts.

Significant Financial Impact

The scale of the problem is underscored by recent figures. Over a six-month period, cable thefts inflicted more than £400,000 (approximately EUR470,000) in damages to the operator. The problem is not confined to the UK; similar incidents have been reported in Germany, particularly in federal states like Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony, and Thuringia. German operators estimate the loss per incident ranges from EUR5,000 to EUR8,000, with affected charging stations remaining offline for up to two weeks during repairs and replacements.

Why Are Charging Cables Targeted?

Charging cables are appealing to thieves primarily due to their copper content, as copper prices have remained high in recent years. While scrap copper commands around eight euros per kilogram without insulation, the market value for material from suspicious sources is likely lower. Each charging cable contains between four and ten kilograms of copper, making them a lucrative target despite the risks involved.

Wider Security Measures

Beyond GPS tracking, operators are adopting a range of preventative strategies to address the cable theft epidemic. These include the use of reinforced cable sheaths resistant to cutting, installation of video surveillance systems at vulnerable locations, and motion-activated monitoring. Some operators have begun deploying cables with embedded GPS trackers as standard, while others use deterrents such as permanent dye packs that stain thieves and stolen goods if the cable sheath is breached.

Another emerging tactic involves replacing copper conductors with aluminum, which is less valuable on the scrap market--fetching just EUR0.40 per kilogram compared to copper. Although aluminum is not as efficient for electrical transmission, its lower resale value is expected to make charging cables less attractive to criminals. However, operators remain cautious, as this measure may not fully prevent vandalism or targeted attacks on charging infrastructure.

Ongoing Challenge for the Industry

The rise of cable theft at EV charging stations presents a significant operational and financial challenge for infrastructure providers. While the integration of GPS tracking and other deterrent technologies marks a proactive approach, industry experts emphasize the need for continued innovation and cooperation with law enforcement to safeguard the growing network of electric vehicle charging points.

As the adoption of electric vehicles accelerates, ensuring the reliability and security of charging infrastructure will be critical for supporting the transition to sustainable mobility. The deployment of advanced anti-theft measures represents a crucial step in maintaining public confidence and keeping vital charging stations operational for EV users across Europe and beyond.