St. Paul joins Minneapolis in facing a wave of cord cutting at EV charging stations, as thieves target the valuable copper wiring. Wire thefts have been a significant challenge for Minneapolis, with the year 2023 marking the most difficult period yet. The city has already suffered substantial financial losses due to the theft of copper wiring from streetlights, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in replacements. Now, the thieves have set their sights on cutting cables at EV Spot Network charging stations, placing an additional burden on the city’s resources.
Despite the relatively low monetary value of the stolen copper, the cost of replacing the charging cables and repairing the damage caused by the thefts amounts to thousands of dollars. To address the issue, Minneapolis’s Public Works Department has been diligently working to replace the stolen charging cables and implementing various measures to deter thieves. However, the city still faces a daunting task, with more than 20 charging cables needing replacement.
HOURCAR, the operator of the Evie car sharing program, has expressed concern over the frustration experienced by drivers who are unable to find working chargers due to the thefts. Acknowledging the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat the problem, the city is deploying additional measures such as installing cameras and signage at charging stations. Furthermore, Minneapolis is collaborating with recycling centers to stem the flow of stolen copper, recognizing the importance of a collective effort to make a more significant impact.
The issue of cord cutting at EV charging stations extends beyond Minneapolis, as St. Paul is also grappling with similar thefts. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving charging stations or light poles to the police. While efforts to tackle the problem are ongoing, the widespread nature of the issue underscores the necessity for continual awareness and collaboration to combat copper theft.
In conclusion, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are facing a surge in wire thefts targeting EV charging cables. These thefts, fueled by the allure of valuable copper wiring, have left both cities struggling to keep up with replacements and repair costs. The authorities are implementing various measures, including increased surveillance and partnerships with recycling centers, to curb the thefts. As the communities unite against this growing problem, vigilance and collaboration remain crucial to protect vital infrastructure and maintain the availability of EV charging stations.
