A recent report has raised concerns about the potential for China to trigger widespread blackouts across Europe by exploiting vulnerabilities in solar infrastructure components. Inverters, crucial for converting solar energy into usable electricity, are at risk due to the need for constant software updates and internet connectivity. The dominance of Chinese manufacturers like Huawei and Sungrow in Europe’s solar market poses a significant threat, given their legal obligations to assist China’s intelligence services.
The report highlights the systemic risk posed by the heavy reliance on Chinese inverters in Europe, with approximately 80% of new installations using these devices. This concentration of control could allow a hostile actor with remote access to disrupt the continent’s energy network without the need for a traditional military attack. Experts estimate that seizing around 10 gigawatts of power could lead to a severe outage, while China controls infrastructure for over 220 gigawatts in Europe.
Despite efforts by the European Commission to restrict the purchase of Chinese inverters using EU funds, the report criticizes this move as insufficient. It points to a failure in prioritizing national security over cheap imports, emphasizing the need for greater vigilance in safeguarding critical infrastructure from potential threats.
