Rogue communication devices have been discovered in Chinese made solar inverters, prompting US energy officials to re-assess risks of emerging Chinese technologies in the renewable energy sector.
These hidden communication devices could potentially destabilize power grids by evading firewalls, switching off inverters remotely, and causing widespread blackouts.
The exact number and intent of these communication devices remain unknown, highlighting significant challenges with manufacturers disclosing functionalities and risks associated with emerging technologies.
Amidst vulnerabilities in solar grids, the US may consider shifting production to domestic plants for a more secure supply chain, as Huawei remains the world's largest supplier of inverters, accounting for 29% of shipments globally in 2022.