Security
Cable Theft Hits France's Charging Network as Copper Prices Surge
August 24, 2026
By Hugo Beignon, Founder of ma-borne-electrique.com
427 complaints filed since January 2026 for nearly 9 million euros in damage: cable theft is surging across France's charging network.
The rapid growth of France's charging network comes with an unwelcome side effect: a surge in cable theft, a phenomenon that has picked up noticeably in 2026.
A sharply rising problem
According to Charge France, the industry body representing charging operators, 427 complaints have been filed nationwide since January 2026, for cumulative damage of nearly 9 million euros. Motorway rest areas, commercial parking lots, and peri-urban areas are especially exposed.
Copper, a prime target
The trend is directly linked to the surge in copper prices, trading around 9,000 euros a tonne on international markets, a historically high level that turns charging cables into attractive targets. It reportedly takes just 5 to 10 seconds with a simple saw to cut through the equipment.
Consequences beyond the value of the metal
For operators, the losses go beyond the value of the stolen copper: repairs, service interruptions that can last several days, and increased security spending all add to the bill, on top of lost charging revenue while the equipment is out of service.
A growing network makes prevention harder
This is happening even as France's network keeps growing fast, with more than 200,000 public charging points counted as of July 31, 2026 across roughly 55,600 stations, which makes securing the entire fleet of equipment an increasingly heavy operational challenge for operators.
Frequently asked questions
How many charging cable thefts have been reported in France in 2026?
According to Charge France, 427 complaints have been filed since January 2026, for cumulative damage of nearly 9 million euros.
Why are charging cables being stolen so often?
The trend is linked to the surge in copper prices, trading around 9,000 euros a tonne, a historically high level that makes charging cables an attractive target.
How long does it take to steal a charging cable?
It reportedly takes just 5 to 10 seconds with a simple saw to cut through the equipment.
Which areas are most affected by cable theft?
Motorway rest areas, commercial parking lots, and peri-urban areas are especially exposed.
Want to find a charging station nearby? Check the charging map to plan your next trip.
