Experimental Cybersecurity Evaluation of Distributed Solar Inverters: Vulnerabilities and Impacts on the Australian Grid
Ahmed S. Musleh, Jawad Ahmed, Nadeem Ahmed, Hunter Xu, Guo Chen, Stephen Kerr, Sanjay Jha
Abstract
The increasing adoption of solar power globally presents an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources. However, integrating solar distributed generation (DG) systems into the power grid introduces complexities that can impact the grid’s reliability and security. While information and communication technologies have significantly improved the management and control of solar DG systems, they concurrently introduce new cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This study explores the security and stability challenges introduced by solar DG systems, with a specific focus on the vulnerabilities in commercial solar inverters. Additionally, it assesses the operational and economic consequences of cybersecurity incidents directed at commercial solar inverters within the energy sector, with a particular emphasis on the Australian grid. Given the vulnerabilities and potential impacts identified, the paper proposes recommendations to enhance the cybersecurity posture of solar DG systems. The primary aim of this article is to enrich the understanding and mitigation strategies for cybersecurity risks associated with solar inverters, thereby ensuring the power grid’s reliable and secure operation. This contribution is critical for stakeholders across the energy sector as it underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures in the face of increasing reliance on solar DG systems.