Cybersecurity, Programable Parts and Trust in Renewable Energy: A Clear Position from SMA

As renewable energy becomes more integrated into critical infrastructure, cybersecurity is no longer a secondary concern. The technologies behind solar and storage systems must not only be efficient and reliable but also secure from unauthorized access and dependable during grid disturbances. 

Inverter based resources are equipped with autonomous control functions that allow them to independently take control actions, which, if compromised or misconfigured, can lead to plant mis-operation and broader system instability. 

In a time when geopolitical tensions are spilling into energy markets and digital infrastructure, the stakes for grid security have never been higher. The United States is actively working to reduce dependence on technology tied to adversarial regimes, particularly in sectors like clean energy where inverters manufactured in places the government deems problematic and opaque software supply chains pose serious risks. From cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure to foreign surveillance concerns, grid-edge devices, technologies located near the boundary between the grid and end-users, have become frontline assets in national security.  

As of today, SMA central inverters are designed, programmed and manufactured in Germany a country that has long provided cybersafe solutions. The company has announced plans to integrate production of our Medium Voltage Power Station (MVPS) in the United States in the future and remains committed to upholding rigorous cybersecurity standards throughout that transition. 

As cybersecurity and energy security become increasingly intertwined, Texas has taken a firm stance to protect its critical infrastructure. The Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act (LSIPA), passed in 2021, outlines specific legal restrictions designed to limit foreign influence over essential systems including electric grid utility systems. 

LSIPA prohibits Texas businesses and government entities from entering into contracts related to critical infrastructure with companies that pose a national security risk. This includes companies that are: 

• Owned or controlled by 

• Headquartered in 

• Or otherwise tied to countries deemed a threat to Texas infrastructure security.  

These countries currently include China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, among others as designated by the governor. Inverters manufactured in Germany and the European Union adhere to some of the highest safety and quality standards in the world, offering greater assurance than products sourced from countries of concern. 

The law applies to contracts that would give these foreign entities direct or remote access to, or control over, any system defined as critical infrastructure. These systems include: 

• Communication networks 

• Cybersecurity frameworks 

• Electrical grid components 

• Water and wastewater systems 

• Hazardous waste treatment facilities 

Access for the purpose of product warranty or technical support is allowed, but anything beyond that is restricted. 

Arizona is advancing legislation to protect its critical infrastructure from foreign adversaries, mirroring efforts like Texas’ LSIPA. House Bill 2696, known as the Arizona Critical Infrastructure Protection Act, prohibits state agencies and public utilities from using software or equipment produced by companies headquartered in or controlled by foreign adversaries, such as China, in critical infrastructure systems. 

In this context, SMA being a German-based company, stands out as a secure and compliant partner for Texas and Arizona’s energy infrastructure. SMA’s inverters have been utilized in projects like the University of Arizona’s solar farm. SMA’s European origin and commitment to the United States make it a favorable option for Arizona’s renewable energy initiatives amid increasing scrutiny of foreign technology in critical infrastructure. 

“As our energy systems become more connected, programmable parts from secure sources must be built into the foundation of every product we deliver,” said Jawid Arghestani, managing director of large-scale sales, technology and marketing for SMA America. “We take that responsibility seriously. This is reflected in our commitment to transparency, supply chain integrity, and protecting the infrastructure our partners and communities rely on every day.” 

SMA is reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in grid modernization. The company’s approach reflects a broader understanding that cybersecurity is not only a technical requirement, but a matter of public confidence and national infrastructure stability. 

For energy developers, utilities, and partners navigating the evolving regulatory landscape, this level of clarity is essential. SMA remains focused on providing secure, high-performance solutions that meet both operational and security standards.  

SMA does not just manufacture hardware. We embed trust into the grid. With complete control over our firmware, secure integration practices, and a proven track record in mission-critical environments, we provide confidence in an increasingly uncertain world. For stakeholders navigating complex energy risks, SMA is a secure and forward-looking choice.