Cable Theft Prevention FAQ

1. What is the true cost of copper cable theft in South Africa?

The true cost of copper cable theft extends far beyond the value of the stolen metal. While estimates vary, it's believed to cost the South African economy billions of Rands each year. This figure considers the cost of cable replacement, lost productivity from power outages, damage to infrastructure, and the knock-on effects on businesses and communities. Some estimations place the cost as high as R187 billion per year.

2. Why is it so difficult to prosecute copper cable thieves?

A primary challenge in prosecuting copper cable theft is proving cable ownership. Traditional marking methods are easily removed, making it difficult to link stolen copper back to its rightful owner. This lack of traceability hinders effective prosecution, resulting in low conviction rates and emboldening further theft.

3. How does CableDNA's technology address copper cable theft?

CableDNA employs a multi-faceted approach:

1. Permanent Identification: CableDNA infuses cables with thousands of microscopic nickel microdots, each carrying a unique identifier. This marking system is resistant to burning, granulation, and even melting, enabling authorities to trace stolen copper back to its origin and prove ownership.

2. Physical Protection: CableDNA offers a range of physical protection solutions like secured trenches, cages, and tamper-proof fastenings to deter theft in the first place.

3. Cable Rejuvenation: Their specialised fluid not only carries the microdot identifiers but also restores the insulation properties of older underground cables, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for replacement, which indirectly reduces the incentive for theft.

4. What makes CableDNA's identification solution superior to other methods?

Unlike traditional marking techniques, CableDNA's nickel microdots are virtually indestructible. They can withstand extreme temperatures, ensuring identification remains possible even if the copper is melted down for resale. This permanence makes CableDNA's solution a powerful deterrent and significantly increases the likelihood of successful prosecution.

5. How does cable theft impact South Africa's move towards net-zero emissions?

The transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar power requires significantly more copper than traditional power generation. As South Africa strives for net-zero emissions, the demand for copper will rise, likely leading to higher prices and potentially fueling even more cable theft. This creates a critical challenge for the country's green energy goals.

6. What are the potential consequences if South Africa fails to curb copper cable theft?

The repercussions of unchecked copper cable theft are severe:

1. Economic Devastation: The financial losses incurred through cable theft hinder economic growth and stability, impacting investment and job creation.

2. Infrastructure Collapse: Persistent theft weakens essential infrastructure, leading to service disruptions, power outages, and potential safety hazards.

3. Social Unrest: The resulting decline in living standards and economic opportunities can fuel social unrest and instability.

7. How can CableDNA's technology contribute to a more sustainable future?

By deterring theft and enabling the recovery of stolen copper, CableDNA contributes to resource preservation. Additionally, their cable rejuvenation technology extends the lifespan of existing infrastructure, reducing waste and minimizing the need to mine new copper, a process with significant environmental impacts.

8. What is the overall objective of CableDNA?

CableDNA's ultimate goal is to eradicate the illegal copper market. By making copper traceable and identifiable, they aim to make it too risky to steal, buy, or sell. This will deter theft, help authorities apprehend criminals, and ultimately dismantle the networks that profit from this destructive crime.