Be.EV and Partners Combat EV Charging Cable Theft
As with any business, crime — especially theft — operates on the principles of supply and demand.
Unfortunately, the growing demand for EV chargers has created an opportunity for criminals to establish their own supply chain. As the global demand for EV chargers continues to rise, countries worldwide will likely experience an increase in the theft and vandalism of charging cables and devices.
Whether you're in Derbyshire, Johannesburg or New York, the trend remains the same: Where there's demand, supply will follow — even in the form of criminal activity.
The rise of EVs has brought about a surge in demand for charging infrastructure. Unfortunately, the increase led to a rise in criminal activity, as thieves target charging cables and equipment to profit from the valuable materials they contain.
To address this growing issue, the national charging network Be.EV has partnered with EV charging specialist Formula Space and Derbyshire Police in a joint effort to combat charging cable theft in Chesterfield.
A response to rising cable theft
In light of the recent spike in EV charging cable thefts across Chesterfield and the broader UK, Be.EV has launched the "Charging Hub Intelligent Protection" initiative (CHIP). The initiative aims to deter charger vandalism and ensure EV charging locations remain safe and accessible for all drivers.
"It's essential for all of us – charge point operators and law enforcement alike – to collaborate effectively and implement robust security measures, just like at Be. EV's new site protection initiative here at this Chesterfield Hub."
Innovative security measures to deter criminals
Be.EV has introduced a range of security measures at its 85 Saltergate Charging Hub in Chesterfield to protect against theft and vandalism, which include:
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring: Install a mobile CCTV system that operates around the clock to deter would-be thieves. The system includes a tannoy feature to warn criminals that they are being recorded.
- SelectaDNA coated cables: The charging cables are now coated with a unique DNA marker, allowing the police to trace the origin of stolen cables and link them to specific criminal activities.
- Real-time alerts to police: Should any criminal activity be detected, the system will automatically alert local law enforcement, ensuring a rapid response.
Adrian Fielden-Gray, COO of Be.EV highlights the significance of these security enhancements, saying: "Cable theft is an absolute nightmare for everyone – especially drivers.
"It's completely unacceptable to find a charging cable cut when you're looking to top up – and for what reason? There's hardly any money to gain from doing this – it's completely pointless and makes the experience worse for everyone."
The broader impact of EV cable theft
The problem of EV charging cable theft extends beyond Chesterfield to the global arena. Charge point operators across the UK, for example, are faced with theft and vandalism, which cost an estimated US$650,000 in replacement, repair and lost income.
Adrian adds: "The industry's number one priority needs to be making sure these criminals never consider vandalising a charging site ever again. We need to come together and use the full force of the law to crack down on thieves and scrap dealers alike."
The rationale behind charging cable theft
The motivation for these thefts often lies in the value of the materials used in charging cables, particularly copper. Organised gangs of thieves are cutting charging cables to strip the copper wiring inside, which they then sell to illegal scrap dealers or through online marketplaces like Facebook and eBay.
Copper's value has been rising, with prices reaching an 11-month high of US$9,164.50 per ton on the London Metal Exchange in March. The International Copper Study Group forecasts a 4.6% increase in global copper demand in 2024, driven by renewable energy systems and the expansion of EV fleets. The rising demand and limited supply make copper a prime target for thieves.
A call to action for the EV industry
Be.EV urges the entire EV charging industry to follow Chesterfield's example and implement similar security features at all Charging Hubs across the UK.
By doing so, they aim to end the growing issue of charging cable theft and protect the UK's critical charging infrastructure.
"The last thing we need when we're trying to facilitate net zero and make the EV experience as comfortable as possible is for drivers to face disruptions due to vandalism," adds Adrian.
"We're working hard to eliminate the problem for Chesterfield's EV drivers and ensure that our ultra-rapid Charging Hubs remain available to communities across the UK."
A template for industry-wide change
The efforts in Chesterfield serve as a blueprint for other communities and charge point operators. By adopting similar protective measures and working closely with local law enforcement, the EV charging industry can create a more secure and reliable infrastructure for all drivers.
As the world transitions to EVs, the industry must address these challenges head-on.
Through initiatives like CHIP, Be.EV and its partners are taking proactive steps to safeguard the future of electric mobility and ensure a smooth transition toward a greener future.
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