Rural photovoltaic panels were stolen

Are solar panels stolen?

By way of example, in August, solar panels worth approximately £10 500 were stolen from an energy farm in Northamptonshire. Solar panel theft is not limited to large scale and commercial solar farms either – homes in remote areas are also vulnerable, with thieves reportedly swiping panels from people’s roofs. Why?

Is solar theft a problem in the UK?

Rural theft has long been an issue in the UK. It is a sinister practice, with repercussions that are as much emotional, as they are commercial. After all, for a small farm, solar panels are a huge investment. Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals.

What if solar theft is not brought under control?

Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals. With nights growing darker earlier from October, the risk of theft increases, so action must be taken around this issue, and fast.

Why are solar panels so expensive?

One reason is that solar panels include a number of valuable materials, like copper cabling, which is currently very expensive and is, as always, in strong demand. Ironically, the demand comes in part from the renewables sector itself.

Why is farm machinery stealing so much?

There are established illicit global markets for farming and technology equipment, where criminals can sell their stolen wares for much higher prices. This specific spate of theft has been triggered by soaring values – particularly in relation to metals and machinery – and the low supply of farm machinery worldwide.