At least 56 electric‑vehicle charging stations across Quebec were vandalized and stripped of their cables by thieves during the summer of 2026. The incidents, reported throughout the province, involve the removal of essential wiring and other damage that renders the stations inoperable.
The wave of thefts has been identified as part of a broader surge in cable theft targeting EV infrastructure. Authorities note that the frequency of these attacks has risen sharply over the past few months, affecting both urban and rural locations. The loss of charging capability hampers drivers who rely on the network for daily travel and undermines efforts to expand electric mobility in the region.
Local service providers have confirmed that the damaged stations span a variety of sites, from publicly owned parking lots to privately operated charging hubs. While the precise value of the stolen materials has not been disclosed, the removal of cables represents a direct financial loss for operators and a safety concern for the public.
Police investigations are ongoing, with officials emphasizing the need to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible. The pattern of theft suggests organized activity, as the removal of heavy copper cables typically requires coordinated effort and equipment. Law enforcement agencies have increased patrols around known charging locations and are urging owners to report suspicious behavior.
The increase in vandalism comes at a time when Quebec is investing heavily in expanding its electric‑vehicle network to meet climate targets. The disruptions highlight vulnerabilities in the emerging infrastructure and may prompt a reassessment of security measures at charging sites.
Stakeholders are monitoring the situation closely, and further updates are expected as investigations progress and additional incidents are documented.