Copper prices rise to more than 30% in the U.S.
(CNN, KYMA) - Copper prices are rising as they have climbed to more than 30% this year in the United States.
According to JPMorgan, it's due to a jump in new data center construction, and speculation about the Trump Administration's new tariffs.
Copper wire plays a critical role in powering America's electrical grid and the high price of copper has driven thefts of it.
The effects have been felt nationwide. Roads and bridges going dark, 911 calls failing to connect and higher utility bills as replacement costs get passed on to consumers.
More than a dozen states have passed legislation this year to crack down on copper wire thefts.
