Growing cyber security threats to photovoltaic systems

With the development of digital technologies and increased integration of devices with the Internet, PV installations are becoming increasingly vulnerable to potential cyber attacks. The smart inverters that control the operation of these systems play a key role in ensuring grid stability and managing energy flows. However, this complexity also makes them a potential target for cybercriminals.

Inverters: The heart of photovoltaic systems

Inverters are indispensable in photovoltaic installations because they convert the direct current generated by solar modules into alternating current, which can be used in homes, offices and power grids. Modern inverters are equipped with advanced communication features, allowing them to monitor, configure and update software remotely. In addition, APIs allow remote control and optimization of energy consumption.

Data processing and storage

Inverters generate huge amounts of data on energy production, equipment telemetry, plant location and customer information. This valuable information is stored and processed in cloud computing, making it easier to manage and analyze, but exposing it to potential cyber attacks.

Multidimensional threats to photovoltaic systems

Cyber threats to PV installations can take many forms and involve many aspects, such as:

Taking control of systems

Cyber criminals may seek to take control of inverters and other devices to disrupt local power grids or even cause a complete grid failure (blackout). Such a situation could lead to serious consequences for the economy and national security.

Manipulation of measurement data

Interference with metering data on energy production can result in financial losses for PV plant owners, companies managing fleets of plants and PV farms. In addition, the manipulation of customer accounts can lead to the leakage of personal data, such as addresses, account numbers and geolocation information.

Hybrid warfare threats

In an unstable geopolitical environment, photovoltaic installations can become a target of attacks under the so-called “geo-political” framework. hybrid war. Criminal states or groups may seek to destabilise other countries’ energy systems through cyber attacks on key infrastructure components, such as solar power plants.

Cyber security initiatives

Both PV equipment manufacturers and regulators are taking steps to enhance the cyber security of renewable energy systems.

Cyber security certification

The U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory has released a report suggesting the introduction of cybersecurity certification for devices that operate distributed energy sources such as photovoltaic cells. The report includes 10 test cases that show how devices deal with network threats.

Software to detect cyber attacks

Bump-in-the-wire software such as DERCyST can be installed in PV devices to detect cyber attacks and update devices with security recommendations, features and certifications. Tests conducted using DERCyST have shown high effectiveness in detecting and countering cyber threats.

EU regulations

At the European Union level, a number of regulations have been introduced to enhance cyber security and business resilience, such as the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the NIS2 Directive. The regulations impose obligations on manufacturers of digital products, including photovoltaic devices, to design with safety in mind.

Activities of inverter manufacturers

Leading inverter manufacturers such as Fronius are taking a number of initiatives to ensure a high level of cyber security for their products.

Data separation

Fronius Poland Solar Energy stores customer data and system data separately to reduce the risk of information leakage. Data is stored on servers located in the European Union, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Training and certification

Fronius employees regularly participate in cybersecurity training, and the company has obtained ISO 27001 information security certification, confirming its high standards in this area.

Autonomy at the European level

Fronius experts stress the importance of autonomy at the European level and independence from non-EU countries in terms of data management and control of PV systems. They suggest making it mandatory to store, use and transmit energy data within the EU and to safeguard against control from outside Europe.

Challenges and future of cyber security in photovoltaics

While efforts are being made to enhance the cyber security of PV installations, challenges in this area remain significant.

Dependence on non-EU producers

The photovoltaic market in Poland is dominated by non-European Union manufacturers, which poses potential risks to data security and system control. Experts suggest that photovoltaic installations should be treated as strategic infrastructure and dependence on non-EU suppliers should be reduced.

Education and awareness

There is a need to raise awareness of cyber threats among installers, plant owners and companies managing photovoltaic systems. Training and awareness campaigns are needed to help people understand the importance of cyber security and take appropriate precautions.

Continuous evolution of threats

Cybercriminals are constantly improving their methods and tools, which requires constant monitoring and adjustment of security measures. Photovoltaic manufacturers need to regularly update software and implement new protection mechanisms to face new threats.

With the development of photovoltaic technology and increased integration with power and Internet networks, the issue of cyber security is becoming crucial. Inverters, the heart of photovoltaic installations, are becoming a potential target for cyber criminals, which can lead to serious consequences such as power disruptions, financial losses and privacy violations. Equipment manufacturers, regulators and plant owners must work together to implement the highest safety standards, educate the public and reduce dependence on non-EU suppliers. Only through a comprehensive approach will it be possible to ensure the safety and stability of photovoltaic systems, which are playing an increasingly important role in the transition to renewable energy sources.