Solar Integration: Inverters and Grid Services Basics
As more solar systems are added to the grid, more inverters are being connected to the grid than ever before. Inverter-based generation can
These inverters, which are essential components that convert direct current from solar panels into alternating current usable by the electrical grid, were found to contain undocumented cellular radio devices not disclosed in product specifications or technical documentation.
U.S. energy officials have launched an investigation after discovering unauthorized communication equipment embedded within Chinese-manufactured solar power inverters connected to critical infrastructure grids across the country.
In order to provide grid services, inverters need to have sources of power that they can control. This could be either generation, such as a solar panel that is currently producing electricity, or storage, like a battery system that can be used to provide power that was previously stored.
Energy security experts warn that coordinated remote manipulation of these devices could destabilize power grids and trigger widespread blackouts, particularly as Chinese-made inverters now control a substantial portion of renewable energy capacity in the United States and Europe.
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