Copper theft is on the rise in Austin, with more than 20 major thefts from customer-owned energy service equipment in the first six months of 2023.
According to a release from Austin Energy, thieves are prying open transformers, or other equipment serving as the main power source to a building, and cutting wires to steal the copper conduit. In many cases, the utility says the lines were still energized, causing great danger to staff and the public.
Austin Energy personnel report finding fuses removed, cables cut and still-energized cable at various locations. In some instances, safety measures had been damaged or stolen, creating additional hazards. Thefts occurred at movie theatres, gyms, grocery stores and vacant commercial buildings, potentially costing commercial customers tens of thousands of dollars to repair.
The utility is working to respond proactively to meter outages at large commercial buildings, especially those that are unoccupied, as that may indicate a theft is in progress.
The thefts drains critical equipment and staff resources, delaying energizing of new buildings and replacement of critical equipment that is already hard to find due to national supply chain issues, Austin Energy says.
“Our focus on customer service is hampered by having to divert staff resources and critical supplies to repair equipment damaged by copper theft,” said Elton Richards, Austin Energy vice president for electrical system field operations. “Instead of energizing commercial customers, we’re responding to damaged equipment and that pushes back critical services for our customers. The Austin Police Department is aware of the rise in copper theft incidents, so if you see something, say something by reporting it.”
Austinites are asked to call 3-1-1 to report anything suspicious observed around electrical equipment.
