Need for remote controllability of solar systems

The mandatory remote controllability of solar installations makes a decisive contribution to safely integrating the increasing share of renewable energies into the electricity grid. It enables flexible control in order to avoid grid overloads, efficiently regulate peak loads and reduce the need for cost-intensive grid expansion. At the same time, a basis for intelligent electricity grids (smart grids) is created, which can promote security of supply, lower electricity prices and the success of the energy transition in the long term. Targeted control will also reduce energy waste and ensure optimal use of resources². The remote controllability obligation already applies to large systems with an output of 100 kW or more³, but smaller systems can also benefit from it.

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Security risks from international manufacturers

A central aspect of the draft law concerns the planned access of inverter manufacturers to the control system of solar installations⁴. These manufacturers are often based outside Europe, particularly in China, which according to the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) poses considerable security risks⁵. However, the problem is broader: in addition to inverters, other essential components such as DC controllers, data loggers, grid protection and monitoring systems as well as SCADA and monitoring systems are already potential points of attack. Even companies that label their products as "Made in Germany" are often subject to international influences. Transparency and security standards are therefore essential in order to effectively counter IT security risks in the solar industry.

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Manufacturer-independent solutions as the key to greater IT security

To protect solar installations as part of the critical infrastructure, manufacturer-independent and interoperable solutions must be favored. These approaches not only prevent external interference, but also strengthen the competitiveness of the market by giving operators a wider choice of innovative technologies. Countries such as Lithuania have recognized this and have already introduced import restrictions on control technology from China⁶ in order to promote national sovereignty and safety. Germany must follow this example and set clear guidelines for the development and use of secure, manufacturer-independent solutions.

At the same time, bureaucratic and resource-intensive approaches such as smart meter gateways should be avoided, as they unnecessarily complicate the implementation of security measures and could slow down progress in the sector. Efficiency, security and innovation must go hand in hand.

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Appeal to politicians, energy suppliers and operators

The risks to IT security in the solar industry are well known - now is the time to take decisive action. Politicians, energy suppliers and system operators must work together to promote manufacturer-independent and secure solutions.

As a 100% German company with the highest security standards, Amperecloud offers system owners and operators a transparent and reliable infrastructure for their solar systems. We invite politicians and energy suppliers to use our expertise to make the energy transition safe and successful. With a combination of far-sighted legislation and individual protective measures, the energy transition can be successfully and safely shaped.

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