Unauthorized installation of photovoltaic grid-connected inverters

Are Chinese solar power inverters connected to critical infrastructure grids?

U.S. energy officials have launched an investigation after discovering unauthorized communication equipment embedded within Chinese-manufactured solar power inverters connected to critical infrastructure grids across the country.

Are solar inverters vulnerable to cyberattacks?

Solar energy technologies can be vulnerable to cyberattack through inverters and control devices that are designed to help manage the electric power grid. Operating-technology (OT) devices like solar photovoltaic inverters, when connected to the Internet, are at higher risk relative to stand-alone OT devices.

Could remote inverters destabilize power grids?

Energy security experts warn that coordinated remote manipulation of these devices could destabilize power grids and trigger widespread blackouts, particularly as Chinese-made inverters now control a substantial portion of renewable energy capacity in the United States and Europe.

Are solar photovoltaic inverters at risk?

Operating-technology (OT) devices like solar photovoltaic inverters, when connected to the Internet, are at higher risk relative to stand-alone OT devices. They must be able to prevent, detect, and respond to unauthorized access or attack.

Are Chinese solar inverters a security risk?

Solar panels fields on the green hills stock photo. U.S. energy officials are reportedly reassessing the security risks posed by Chinese-made components in renewable energy infrastructure after discovering hidden communication devices inside certain solar inverters.

Do solar inverters contain undocumented cellular radio devices?

These inverters, which are essential components that convert direct current from solar panels into alternating current usable by the electrical grid, were found to contain undocumented cellular radio devices not disclosed in product specifications or technical documentation.