Electric Utility Substation in Texas Secured; Copper Thieves Apprehended

Copper theft is an increasing nationwide problem, causing challenges for businesses across multiple industries. Particularly hard hit are electric utilities, due to the considerable amount of copper used in frequently remote locations.

In an effort to prevent copper theft, a northern Texas cooperative electric utility installed an intrusion detection system from Smarter Security Systems to augment its security provisions. In early February, the investment in SmarterFence delivered its payback, as thieves attempting yet another strike on one of the co-op substations were scared away. The electric co-op is working to protect the remainder of its substations the same way.

SmarterFence is a highly intelligent fiber optic sensor system that mounts to any chain-link fence. Its ability to tune out environmental nuisances and detect real intrusion attempts allows it to provide reliable early warning of intruders by detecting any attempt to cut or climb a perimeter security fence.

Jeff Brown, president of Smarter Security Systems explains, “Copper theft is an annoying and costly problem that we are working to help prevent. Our wide breadth of outdoor security solutions gives utilities and other organizations multiple options for securing their perimeters.”

The northern Texas electric cooperative mentioned in this story provides electrical and telecommunications services to more than 15,000 members in two rural counties. In early February, thieves who had broken into its substation were interrupted by police responding to an alarm triggered by the SmarterFence. The thieves were scared away but left personal property behind which led police to the arrest of one of the perpetrators. Since the primary suspect has named accomplices, perhaps even more copper thefts will be stopped.