In an increasingly digitalized world, the energy system infrastructure is becoming more dependent on connected technologies. This particularly affects photovoltaic systems and other renewable energy sources, which are increasingly being connected to digital control systems and the Internet of Things (IoT). This development not only brings numerous advantages, such as more efficient control and better monitoring of systems, but also poses significant security risks that can affect both private installations and commercial energy systems. Cybersecurity is therefore a crucial factor in ensuring the stability and reliability of our energy supply and in identifying and addressing potential vulnerabilities early on.

The advancing connectivity allows for reducing energy costs, optimizing operations, and achieving better integration into the power grid. On the other hand, it also opens up vulnerabilities for cybercriminals who aim to gain access to critical infrastructures. A successful attack can have serious consequences, ranging from financial losses to production outages and even compromising supply security. The threat landscape is exacerbated by the fact that many facility operators are either unaware of the risks or do not invest sufficiently in protective measures.

Energy systems, especially photovoltaic systems, are vulnerable to different types of cyberattacks. This is because many systems can be controlled remotely and are connected to the internet. The most common risks include:

1. Manipulation of Control Systems: Attackers could manipulate the control systems of a photovoltaic system to disrupt its operation or influence energy production. This could create a significant economic risk, especially for commercial operators whose revenues depend on a constant energy output. Targeted manipulation could also be used to physically damage the systems by overloading them or disabling key control mechanisms.
2. Data theft: Photovoltaic systems collect a variety of data on energy production, consumption, and operating conditions. This data can be intercepted and misused through attacks to draw conclusions about consumer behavior, for example. Such information could be exploited by competitors or used to plan targeted further attacks. The loss of such data can also significantly damage customer trust in the providers.
3. Denial-of-Service attacks (DoS): A DoS attack can cause the control systems of the facility to become overloaded, making the operation of the facility temporarily impossible. This can significantly impact the availability of the facility. Especially during times when high energy production is required, this can lead to serious problems. DoS attacks could aim to incapacitate a large area simultaneously, resulting in a massive disruption of the energy supply.
4. Compromise through malware: Cybercriminals could infiltrate systems with malicious software to take control of the facility or sabotage the systems. The consequences range from production outages to costly repairs. In particularly severe cases, the malware could even disrupt integration into the power grid, leading to supply shortages. Attackers could, for example, use so-called "ransomware," which encrypts systems and only allows their restoration upon payment of a ransom.
5. Threat from Phishing: Phishing attacks are also a danger to energy systems. Employees could be tricked into revealing access credentials through fake emails or websites, allowing attackers to gain access to the systems. This threat is particularly significant in companies that employ many workers, and regular training is necessary to raise awareness of such risks.