Are non-European solar inverters a threat to Europe's Energy Autonomy?

The European Solar Manufacturing Council (ESMC) has issued a stark warning, highlighting a critical threat to Europe’s energy autonomy stemming from the unregulated remote access capabilities of PV inverters produced by non-European, high-risk manufacturers—particularly those from China. A recent study by DNV substantiates these concerns.

Who makes the most solar inverters in Europe?

In 2023, 78% of all inverters installed in Europe came from Chinese vendors, with the overwhelming majority being made by Huawei and SunGrow, according to DNV, a risk consultancy. The report was commissioned by SolarPower Europe, an industry advocacy group.

Are solar inverters a threat to Europe's energy sovereignty?

The European Solar Manufacturing Council (ESMC) today issued a clear and urgent warning: Europe’s energy sovereignty is at serious risk due to the unregulated and remote control capabilities of PV inverters from high-risk, non-European manufacturers – most notably from China. Study by DNV provides the evidence.

Why are Chinese solar inverters so popular?

The report was commissioned by SolarPower Europe, an industry advocacy group. This market dominance can likely be explained by a combination of China’s large manufacturing capacity and the comparatively lower prices of Chinese inverters compared to European ones.

Who is sinovoltaics?

Since 2009, Sinovoltaics, a Dutch-German Battery Energy Storage (BESS) and solar photovoltaic (PV) technical compliance and quality assurance service firm, has been a pioneer in the BESS and solar photovoltaic industries.

Could Chinese inverters shut down Europe's grid?

It is one of six Chinese vendors that collectively control over 219 GW. Given that Spain’s grid collapsed after a 2.2 GW drop, these vendors could remotely shut down Europe’s grid. Reports of rogue communication devices in Chinese inverters, allowing them to bypass firewalls, further highlight the need for action.