People are stealing ev charging cables to sell the copper, latest threat to green agenda

TRENTON, NJ – The push to mandate electric vehicles for all in New Jersey is facing a new threat, according to a recent article by the AP. Thieves are now cutting the cables at EV charging station and stealing the copper. Under New Jersey law, there’s really no criminal penalty and these thieves, when caught will probably never serve a day in jail.

It’s a catch-22 for Governor Phil Murphy, who is soft on crime and hard on electric vehicles. Criminals in New Jersey already know they don’t face consequences for serious crimes. With EV stations on every corner, there’s a lot of scrap copper to be had, with little risk and a decent reward.

At $10 per cable in copper, a good night cutting cables at charging stations can net a few hundred dollars for would-be criminal entrepreneurs.

The dark scenes unfolding at EV charging stations across the United States highlight a growing challenge in the nation’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Thieves, lured by soaring copper prices, have increasingly targeted these stations, stealing cables that are essential for their operation. This criminal activity not only disrupts the charging infrastructure but also adds stress and frustration for EV owners who find themselves scrambling to locate a working station.

This issue has become part of a broader, troubling pattern affecting EV adoption. The stolen cables, which disable the charging stations, exacerbate the already prevalent concerns about the adequacy of charging infrastructure. According to recent surveys, about 40% of U.S. adults are hesitant about transitioning to EVs due to the prolonged charging times and a perceived scarcity of charging facilities.

The implications of these thefts extend beyond immediate inconvenience. They pose a significant setback to U.S. automakers who are investing heavily in the EV market, hoping to steer consumers away from traditional combustion engines. Companies like Stellantis, Ford, and General Motors have committed billions of dollars towards achieving ambitious EV sales targets over the next decade, viewing it as critical to combating climate change.

However, the repeated incidents of cable theft at charging stations underline the complexities and obstacles in promoting EVs. While automakers and policymakers are pushing for a greener future, the practical challenges for consumers remain substantial. Without a reliable and secure charging network, the path to widespread EV adoption seems fraught with hurdles that need urgent addressing to maintain consumer confidence and ensure a smooth transition to electric mobility.

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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