Washington, D.C.—U.S. cybersecurity and national security experts have raised alarm over discovering undocumented communication devices embedded in Chinese-manufactured solar power inverters. These devices, which may enable remote control of critical infrastructure, have heightened concerns about potential grid instability and widespread blackouts.
Mike Rogers, former director of the U.S. National Security Agency, warned that such vulnerabilities pose a serious risk to infrastructure security, stating that these undocumented communication channels could be exploited to disrupt or destroy key energy systems.
The concern extends beyond U.S. borders, as European energy officials also recognize systemic risks. The European Solar Manufacturing Council has pointed out that more than 200 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity across Europe are linked to Chinese inverters, further amplifying security concerns on a global scale.
In response to these revelations, U.S. lawmakers are proposing legislation limiting reliance on Chinese energy equipment, citing national security threats. The proposed measures seek to bolster domestic energy security and reduce exposure to foreign technological risks.
This issue underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions and highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures in energy infrastructure. As lawmakers deliberate on further actions, industry leaders and security analysts continue to assess the broader implications of foreign-manufactured components in critical systems.
