The demand for copper has skyrocketed due to its essential role in various technologies such as electric vehicles and data centers, as well as its use in ammunition. Copper's rising cost and scarcity have made it a target for theft, with energy supplier EnBW reporting a troubling trend in Germany where thieves are stealing heavy copper cables from public electric vehicle charging stations. Since mid-2025, over 1,200 charging cables at 180 sites across the country have been reported stolen, with notable hotspots in Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Saxony-Anhalt.

The challenges posed by copper theft highlight the urgent need for protective measures and a re-evaluation of resource management strategies. The situation has escalated to a point where various governments are contemplating the establishment of strategic stockpiles of copper to mitigate the effects of increased theft and to ensure a reliable supply for critical technologies that rely on this metal. As electric vehicles gain popularity and the demand continues to surge, the security of copper resources becomes increasingly paramount.

This issue is not only relevant to energy companies but touches on broader economic and technological implications. The thefts threaten to disrupt the infrastructure necessary for the transition to electric mobility and other high-tech industries, which rely on a steady supply of copper. Understanding these dynamics is vital for policy makers and businesses alike, as they work to safeguard against shortages and promote sustainable resource management in the face of rising demand and criminal activity.