In response to the increasing digitalization of the energy sector, SolarPower Europe has released a comprehensive position paper on cybersecurity, accompanied by an official statement from Deputy CEO Dries Acke. The organization emphasizes the critical need to enhance cybersecurity measures as Europe transitions to a digital, electrified energy system.
“The digitalization of the energy sector is a no-brainer. It increases power plant efficiency and allows for better management of distributed energy to match demand and grid capacity. A digital, electrified energy system will cost Europeans €160 billion less by 2040.”
However, Acke cautioned that, like previous technological revolutions, digitalization introduces new challenges, notably in cybersecurity. He drew a parallel to the evolution of computer technology, stating, “We didn’t need anti-virus protection for a typewriter – but we do need it for our laptops.”
Current Cybersecurity Landscape and Future Outlook
Today, the risk of a significant cyberattack on Europe’s grid via solar plants is limited, as project developers and manufacturers already implement necessary cybersecurity measures. Additionally, new EU cybersecurity legislation, such as the updated Network and Information Security Directive and the Cyber Resilience Act, provides a framework for enhanced security protocols.
However, as the sector continues to evolve and aims to supply the majority of Europe’s electricity, SolarPower Europe recognizes the need for proactive measures. Key recommendations from the position paper include:
Enhance Governance Requirements:
Improve cyber risk assessments.
Set a new EU standard for product security in distributed energy resources.
Empower consumers to manage their device security.
Reinforce Product-Level Cybersecurity:
Ensure compliance with the Cyber Resilience Act.
Establish a dedicated standard for distributed energy resources.
Strengthen Cybersecurity for Power Plant Operation:
Operational PV power plant data should remain within the EU or in jurisdictions with equivalent security standards.
Implement mandatory best practices for the secure operation of large power plants.
Introduce a security layer for centrally coordinated devices.
Empower Users and Installers:
Encourage the use of strong passwords and regular security updates for small-scale PV installations.
Economic Impact and Savings
SolarPower Europe’s recent modeling suggests that digital flexibility solutions could lower energy system costs by €32 billion by 2030 and €160 billion by 2040, compared to scenarios with minimal digitalized flexibility and electrification.
Conclusion
Dries Acke reiterated SolarPower Europe’s commitment to maintaining Europe’s leadership in renewable energy and cybersecurity, “We’re a future-looking sector, on our way to providing the majority of Europe’s electricity. We take that responsibility seriously.”
By addressing these cybersecurity challenges proactively, SolarPower Europe aims to ensure the safe, reliable, and cost-effective digital transformation of the energy sector, ultimately benefiting European consumers and the broader economy.
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