Copper thieves have been targeting onshore windfarms in England, with security experts suggesting that organized gangs may be behind the recent spate of thefts. At least 12 large windfarms in regions such as Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, and Derbyshire have fallen victim to cabling thefts in the past three months. The frequency and scale of these incidents are unprecedented, with usual isolated incidents involving single turbines now replaced by coordinated attacks on large windfarms.
Richard Crisp, an intelligence analyst at DeterTech Crime Intelligence, stated that the current level of offending is exceptional, far exceeding the typical annual reports of less than five opportunistic incidents. The criminals seem undeterred by the fact that the turbines are operational during their thefts, showing a high level of confidence and familiarity with the infrastructure.
A decision reached by the Labour government last year to lift the ban on onshore windfarm proposals has sparked new investments in renewable energy projects in England. However, the recent uptick in thefts poses a challenge to these developments, affecting not only the operation of critical energy infrastructure but also the safety of workers and those involved in the thefts.
Windfarms are often situated in remote areas, making it easier for criminals to carry out their activities without waiting for nightfall. Copper, being a valuable resource, is an attractive target; stealing it comes with lesser risks compared to other criminal enterprises such as drug dealing.
The industry is collaborating with the National Infrastructure Crime Reduction Partnership to combat metal crime, including thefts from infrastructures like railway and telephone lines. Windfarm owners have been advised to increase security measures and monitor CCTV footage for any signs of criminal activity. RenewableUK, a trade group, is actively working with the police to enhance site security and address this issue, emphasizing the risks posed by organized criminality to important energy infrastructure and the safety of everyone involved.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jun/23/windfarms-in-england-hit-by-wave-of-copper-cabling-thefts
