Echo: Cyber threats in solar energy: What are we facing?

Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are no longer just targeting traditional technologies like computer systems or wind turbines. A new threat has emerged: solar panels. Ethical hackers from the Netherlands recently revealed that these devices are not sufficiently protected against tampering. They managed to remotely turn solar panels on and off and even change their settings.

Solar energy plays a crucial role in the European Union’s energy mix. In 2022, solar energy accounted for 14% of the electricity supply in the Netherlands, the highest share in the EU. This only underscores the importance of protecting these resources.

One of the most vulnerable components is the converters, which transform solar energy into electricity suitable for the grid. These converters can be easily controlled remotely and could be used in attacks that could destabilize the power grid.

This risk has been highlighted by the industry association SolarPower Europe, which has called for stricter cybersecurity regulations for distributed energy sources, including solar panels. Additionally, there is a need to improve monitoring of these devices at both the European and national levels to prevent potential cyberattacks.

Solar energy holds great promise, but without adequate protection, it can also pose significant risks. It’s time we start taking cybersecurity in this area seriously.

In Slovak:  Kybernetické hrozby v oblasti solárnej energie: Čo nám hrozí?

Sources: Energia v digitálnom veku: Prečo je kybernetická bezpečnosť dôležitá (in SK only)

European Commission: Risk assessment report on cyber resilience on EU’s telecommunications and electricity sectors

White hat hacker shines spotlight on vulnerability of solar panels installed in Europe