Solar farm security guide: Everything you need to know

The risks of operating a solar farm

While solar farms contribute to a greener future, they also introduce unique security challenges:

• Panel theft: Solar panels are valuable and relatively easy to resell.
• Remote locations: Many sites are far from public view or personnel, especially during nights and weekends.
• Quick install, poor security: Many farms are installed rapidly to meet funding deadlines, leaving security as an afterthought.
• Targeted equipment: In addition to panels, criminals seek copper cabling, inverters and other electronics.
  Operational risk: Just one missing string of panels can significantly impact output and revenue.

Smart protection for solar farms

At Kooi, we secure hundreds of solar parks across Europe with smart, mobile camera systems. Our units are built for remote and off-grid environments, ensuring autonomous operation powered by sustainable energy.

Tamper-proof installation

Effective security measures for solar or electrical systems must be considered right from the installation phase. One of the most critical steps in preventing theft and unauthorized access is ensuring that all components are physically secured using tamper-resistant solutions. This includes all major hardware such as solar panels, control panels, gates, and other access points. These should be installed using tamper-proof fasteners and specialist tools that are not commonly available, making it significantly more difficult for intruders to dismantle or remove the equipment without being detected.

In addition to physical barriers, particular attention should be paid to high-value and sensitive components such as inverters and battery systems. We strongly recommend housing these elements in locked, weatherproof enclosures that offer both durability and resistance to forced entry. These enclosures should be compliant with industry standards and ideally include reinforced locking mechanisms.

Another essential aspect of a secure setup is the careful mounting of cable runs and junction boxes. Cables should not be exposed or loosely attached, as this makes them vulnerable to cutting or removal. Instead, all cabling should be routed through conduits and securely anchored along predefined paths, ideally in areas with limited public access. Junction boxes should be mounted out of reach or within locked compartments, and their covers should be secured with anti-tamper screws or locking systems.

What to include in a solar farm security plan

An effective solar farm security plan should include the following key components:

Risk assessment
A thorough risk assessment is the foundation of any robust security strategy. It involves evaluating the site layout, its proximity to public roads and footpaths, visibility from surrounding areas, and the specific types and locations of critical equipment such as inverters and batteries. Understanding the local environment and potential threats enables you to identify vulnerable points and tailor your security efforts accordingly.

Security measures
Based on the outcomes of the risk assessment, appropriate preventive measures should be implemented. These may include installing surveillance cameras with night vision and motion detection, using adequate perimeter lighting to eliminate dark spots, and erecting secure fencing with anti-climb features. Controlled access via locked gates or electronic access systems is essential, and all physical measures should ideally be integrated with remote monitoring tools to allow real-time threat detection.

Response protocols
A clear and actionable response plan is crucial for handling potential security breaches. This should define what types of incidents trigger an alarm, outline expected response times, and identify escalation contacts within your team or external monitoring services. Proper coordination with law enforcement or private security responders ensures rapid and effective action in case of emergencies.

Ongoing security reviews
As your solar farm grows or evolves, so should your security strategy. Regular evaluations help determine whether current measures remain effective or require updates. This includes assessing new technology, adjusting to site expansions, learning from past incidents, and adapting to new risks. Continuous improvement ensures long-term protection.

Training and awareness
Ensuring that everyone who accesses the site understands security protocols is vital. Site managers, contractors, and maintenance staff should receive periodic training to stay up to date with procedures. Simulated drills can reinforce preparedness and help identify gaps in awareness or response capabilities.

Ready to secure your solar site?

We combine technology, expertise and sustainable power to deliver reliable protection for solar farms of all sizes. Whether you need temporary security during installation or long-term protection for active parks, Kooi is here to help.

Why choose Kooi?

• 24/7 remote monitoring with immediate intervention
  Around-the-clock surveillance ensures that your site is continuously monitored by a dedicated control center. In the event of suspicious activity or a triggered alarm, trained security operators can assess the situation in real-time and initiate immediate intervention. Whether through audio warnings, dispatching mobile security teams, or contacting local authorities.

• Fully autonomous units powered by solar or hybrid energy
  Our surveillance systems operate independently of on-site power infrastructure. By using solar-powered or hybrid energy sources, these units remain operational even in remote areas or during grid outages. This ensures uninterrupted protection without adding to your energy consumption or requiring costly cabling.

• Scalable solutions for small and large solar farms
  Whether you manage a compact rooftop installation or a multi-hectare solar farm, our systems are designed to scale. Modular components and flexible configurations allow you to tailor the level of security to the size and layout of your site, and to expand as your operations grow.

• Fast deployment and flexible contracts
  Our solutions are engineered for rapid setup, often within days of approval. With minimal installation requirements and mobile-ready units, we help you secure your site quickly. Additionally, we offer flexible contract options to match your project duration, seasonal needs, or long-term planning.

• Experience across hundreds of solar installations in Europe
  With a proven track record across diverse environments and regulatory landscapes, we bring deep expertise to every project. Our team has secured hundreds of solar farms across Europe, allowing us to anticipate challenges, implement best practices, and deliver reliable protection tailored to your region and risk profile.