US engineers found hidden “kill switches” in Chinese solar inverters, raising fears of grid sabotage. Former NSA director warned China could disrupt critical infrastructure.
LBC
Engineers on American solar farms have uncovered secret communication devices—dubbed “kill switches”—embedded in power inverters manufactured in China. These inverters connect solar panels to electricity grids and typically allow remote maintenance, but the rogue devices create hidden channels that could enable remote control or sabotage.
A source described the devices as “built-in way to physically destroy the grid,” sparking fears they could destabilize power infrastructure and cause widespread blackouts. The U.S. Department of Energy confirmed ongoing risk assessments but declined detailed comment.
Former NSA director Mike Rogers said, “China believes there is value in placing at least some elements of our core infrastructure at risk of destruction or disruption.”
China’s embassy denied the allegations, calling them distortions. Meanwhile, British officials have called for urgent reviews of solar panel sourcing amid concerns over national security.