Japan has launched an investigation into Chinese-made solar panels over fears they may contain hidden communication devices capable of disrupting the nation’s power grid – a security concern that analysts say could accelerate a shift towards domestic clean-energy technology.
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The inquiry follows recent findings by authorities in the United States and Europe earlier this month, who uncovered suspicious equipment embedded in these panels not listed in the official product specifications.
The components were found in power inverters – devices that connect solar panels and wind turbines to electricity grids and allow remote access for updates. However, this equipment from at least two Chinese companies was not listed in their technical details.
Experts quoted by Reuters said the unlisted equipment provides a communication channel unknown to the operator, potentially allowing remote circumvention of security firewalls.
Allowing an external entity to remotely control inverters could disrupt power grids, damage energy infrastructure, and cause blackouts, threatening national energy security. In conflict, the ability to cut or reduce the power supply becomes a powerful weapon.
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The Japanese government has started examining imported solar panels to determine whether similar undeclared equipment has been added to units sold in the country.