Power grids are becoming increasingly complex and vulnerable due to their growing reliance on internet-connected devices like solar inverters. Security researchers have demonstrated that many solar power systems can be accessed using weak or default passwords, potentially allowing hackers to disrupt electricity supply. While a coordinated attack on enough solar installations could cause regional blackouts, experts believe it would take control of 6 to 10 gigawatts to seriously impact the grid. Concerns are heightened by the dominance of Chinese manufacturers in the inverter market and past cyberattacks attributed to state actors like China and Russia. In response, the EU is introducing new cybersecurity legislation, but experts warn that existing vulnerabilities in older devices remain a significant risk.

*This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.