Hidden Chinese Comms Devices Found in US, Europe Solar Inverters Raise Grid Security Concerns

U.S. energy officials and cybersecurity experts have discovered undocumented communication devices embedded within Chinese-made solar power inverters and batteries, raising significant concerns about the security of critical renewable energy infrastructure. These hidden modules, capable of remote communication, bypass typical firewall protections and could potentially allow unauthorized access or control, including remote disabling of power systems, as demonstrated by the Chinese company Deye's actions in multiple countries. Experts warn that such vulnerabilities could enable Beijing to sabotage Western energy grids, turning essential renewable energy components into potential cyberweapons under China's National Intelligence Law, which mandates cooperation with state intelligence agencies. The U.S. Department of Energy is assessing these risks but has not publicly disclosed the full extent of the threat, while officials emphasize the need for transparency and understanding of product capabilities by purchasers. This situation highlights a growing geopolitical and cybersecurity challenge as Western countries increasingly rely on Chinese-manufactured energy equipment, making supply chain security a critical priority to prevent potential economic warfare via energy infrastructure disruption. Chinese officials have denied these allegations, opposing broad national security claims against their technology exports.