Rising copper prices and rampant theft are jeopardizing the stability of America’s electrical grid, with recent reports underscoring the critical need for action to prevent widespread outages and economic damage. Copper, essential for power transmission, has seen prices surge due to supply constraints and increased demand, leading to criminal activities that directly threaten infrastructure.
Copper prices have climbed more than 30% this year in the United States, reaching near-record levels, driven by factors such as new data center construction, speculation about tariffs, and strong demand from electric vehicles and renewable energy projects. According to Trading Economics, copper futures hovered around $5.47 per pound on December 23, 2025, marking a significant annual increase and highlighting persistent supply issues from major mining countries like Chile and Peru.
The soaring prices have incentivized widespread copper wire theft, which is causing severe damage to the electrical grid. In Los Angeles, thieves have stolen over seven miles of copper wire from the Sixth Street Bridge alone, resulting in $2.5 million in damage and leaving the landmark dark. Nationwide, there were more than 15,000 attacks on communication networks between June 2024 and June 2025, affecting millions of customers, with California and Texas being hotspots.
This theft not only disrupts power but also compromises public safety by knocking out streetlights, traffic signals, and emergency services. A detective from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department noted that these incidents occur daily, describing the damage as akin to domestic terrorism due to its scale and impact. Utility companies like AT&T are spending millions annually to repair the damage, with costs often passed on to consumers through higher bills.
Efforts are underway to combat the problem. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed legislation to increase penalties for copper theft and crack down on recyclers who buy stolen materials, joining 12 other states that have passed similar laws in 2025. Cities are also exploring alternatives, such as solar-powered streetlights that don’t require copper wiring, to reduce vulnerability.
The broader economic implications are substantial. Goldman Sachs projects that more than 60% of copper demand growth through 2030 will come from sectors like EVs, AI data centers, and grid expansion, putting further pressure on prices. Supply disruptions, including mine outages and low treatment charges, exacerbate the situation, making it difficult for the grid to keep pace with modernization needs.
Looking ahead, the combination of high copper prices and persistent theft poses a significant challenge to America’s energy infrastructure. Without effective interventions, the reliability of the electrical grid could be compromised, affecting everything from household electricity to critical services. Solutions may include accelerated adoption of fiber-optic alternatives, enhanced security measures, and policies to stabilize copper markets, but immediate action is required to safeguard the grid’s integrity.
