Solar Energy Farms Found Out The Hard Way That Wireless (WiFi) Is Insecure!
The Problem
In recent years, the solar energy industry has grown significantly, with more and more individuals and businesses turning to solar power as a way to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills. However, as the industry has grown, so too has the need for increased security measures to protect against cyber attacks.
The use of solar power relies heavily on the internet and Ethernet technologies, which means that the industry is vulnerable to cyber threats. This has become a growing concern for many in the industry, as cyber attacks can not only cause financial losses, but can also put public safety at risk.
Recent attacks on global energy infrastructure has shown how easy it is to severely disrupt the ability to power our populous majority technological driven society.
These attacks can affect local communities, cities, states or entire countries depending on the will of the attackers. Sloppy security planning and reliance on unsecured technologies, like WiFi wireless, has allowed a majority of these attacks to get into access control and LAN data streams of connected facilities. One of the biggest threats facing Solar panel farms today is the use of WiFi / Wireless technology to remotely control solar panel arrays.
Today, most solar PV panels are serial controlled and require powered serial-to-LAN converters. On solar panel arrays over 328ft /100m away, they are typically connected to a WiFi Wireless LAN. As most all of us are fully aware by now – there is no such thing as wireless security regardless of encryption used.
Anything put into the air can easily be interpreted, spoofed and cracked open allowing basic hackers direct access to anything connected – your PV panels and all computer systems attached.
One of the interesting facts about solar energy security is that it has become a significant issue for governments as well. Many countries are investing in solar energy as a way to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change. However, as the industry has grown, so too has the need for increased security measures to protect against cyber attacks. Governments are now taking a more active role in ensuring that the industry is secure, and are working closely with solar energy companies to develop effective security strategies.
What To Do?
To solve this challenge, secure hard-line Ethernet Extenders and in some cases PoE Extenders are rapidly deployed and connected directly into the LAN ports on access control and other LAN devices where WiFi gear once allowed hackers in.
Ethernet Extenders also turn out to be a far more cost effective solution and can even run off the same power feed as the panels they are protecting.
SolarWorld Americas Says Hackers in China Stole Documents
As recent as Sept 1st, 2014 – SolarWorld Americas, the largest manufacturer of solar panels in the United States, has asked the Commerce Department to investigate claims that Chinese military personnel broke into the company’s computers and stole documents important to its business and its long-running trade dispute with China.
This leak also happened to be a result of SolarWorld Americas use of cheap Chinese LAN equipment in their own network that was infected with spyware. – So just another lesson to be very careful about buying what appears to be cheaper, lower cost Networking equipment – especially anything Made in China.
Protect your LAN Networks and stick to trusted reputable brands that are only Made in the USA.
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Buyer Beware! Knockoff competitors of our products have been banned by the US Govt for containing data stealing spyware.
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Final Thoughts And Conclusion
In conclusion, the solar energy sector has recognized the imperative for enhanced security measures to mitigate cyber threats. The integration of internet and Ethernet technologies into solar power systems has exposed vulnerabilities, prompting significant efforts to address this concern.
Notable initiatives include the implementation of enhanced security protocols, robust encryption technologies, and specialized security tools and software. Governments and cybersecurity professionals are actively engaged in supporting the industry’s security endeavors, forging close partnerships with solar energy firms to devise effective security strategies.
As the industry continues its expansion and evolution, security will persist as a paramount concern for all stakeholders. By continuously investing in security measures and fostering collaboration with experts, the solar energy sector can ensure the enduring safety, dependability, and sustainability of solar power as a viable energy source in the years ahead.
