Warning customers about the dangers of copper theft while providing ways to prevent and report it


(Albuquerque, NM) – PNM has launched its annual Copper Theft Awareness Month. Throughout September, PNM will be alerting residential and business customers about copper theft, how to identify it, what they can do if they become a victim, how to report it and what steps they can take to deter copper thieves.

Copper theft is an ongoing issue nationwide that plagues residents, businesses and utilities every year. So far this year, PNM has received 51 reports of business customers hit by copper thieves. In 2022, PNM received a total of 83 copper theft reports from businesses. Not only is copper theft illegal, but it can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair and replace. Copper theft also poses a serious safety hazard to the public. High copper prices entice criminals to steal metals from homes, businesses, scrap sites, and utilities.

Once the copper is stolen, customers may find that even though their power is on, it fluctuates, electronics are sparking, or arcing is visible around the meter box or transformer. Copper thieves often leave open the transformers housed in the green metal boxes containing electrical equipment and live wires. Touching them could be deadly. Stay away, never touch this equipment, and report it to PNM immediately by calling 888-DIAL PNM.

To deter copper thieves, businesses can install protective devices (like the one pictured below) that barricade the doors to transformers and meters and cover the locks and handles to deter access. Visit PNM.com/energy-and-copper-theft  for more information.

Residential customers can also take the following steps to deter copper theft at their home:

• Illuminate your yard using motion sensors.
• Install security lighting and/or cameras.
• Do not leave equipment/metals exposed and unsecured.
• Join or organize a neighborhood watch network. See something, say something. Sharing of information is key.

To report suspected copper theft, call PNM immediately at 888-DIAL-PNM (888-342-5766) so PNM can send out a crew to make the area safe. Unless you report an open transformer, PNM may not know it occurred. Share what you know anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 505-843-STOP (505-843-7867). Anonymous tips can also be submitted at P3tips.com/531. Crime Stoppers will pay a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of individuals involved in copper theft.