The rapid expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure in France is facing a growing problem – theft and vandalism involving cables at public charging stations. According to industry association Charge France, more than 400 cases of damaged or stolen charging cables have been reported since the beginning of 2026. Fast-charging stations are particularly attractive targets because their thick cables contain relatively large amounts of copper. The financial reward for thieves, however, is small – the copper recovered from a single cable is typically worth only around €40–50. For charging network operators, the consequences can be far more expensive. Representatives of the automotive sector estimate that restoring a damaged charging station can cost between €1,500 and €3,000 when replacement equipment, specialist technicians and required safety inspections are included. This means the financial damage can be around 60 times greater than the value of the stolen metal.
The problem goes beyond the immediate repair costs. While a damaged station remains out of service, operators lose revenue and EV drivers may arrive to find that the charger cannot be used. Atlante, which operates around 1,800 charging points in France, has reported losses reaching millions of euros as a result of thefts, repairs and service interruptions. Fast-charging stations are often located along roads or in areas with relatively little activity, making them more difficult to protect. The problem is not limited to France. Charging network operators in other European countries have also reported significant numbers of cable thefts. In Germany, operator EnBW recorded more than 900 cases at over 130 locations during 2025, with damage running into millions of euros.
Operators and manufacturers are now looking for ways to reduce the problem. Measures include video surveillance, improved lighting and stronger physical protection for charging cables. Some companies are also testing technologies that can mark stolen cables or offenders when a cable is cut, while tracking systems could make stolen material easier to identify. More durable protective coverings are another possible solution designed to make cables harder to cut. The issue is becoming increasingly important as Europe’s EV charging network continues to expand. The unusual economics of the crime remain striking – a thief may recover only around €50 worth of copper, while a single cut cable can disable a charging station and leave its operator facing thousands of euros in repairs.
