NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – PNM issued a warning about copper theft on Monday as part of the utility company's annual Copper Theft Awareness Month.

In 2024, PNM said it received 110 copper-theft reports from businesses. Copper theft can cost customers tens of thousands of dollars to repair and replace when factoring in the time a business will have to close to make repairs.

Once the copper wire is stolen from a transformer, customers may find that even though their power is on, it fluctuates, electronics spark, or arc 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.

If you see a transformer that appears to have been tampered with, report it to PNM immediately by calling 888-342-5

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