Theft of photovoltaic inverter CCTV

Are solar PV projects causing theft and vandalism?

The capital costs of solar PV projects can be enormous, running up into millions of dollars and with parks taking years to realise. Given this, developers want to make the most out of their investment but an increasing practice is threatening this return: theft and vandalism of solar technology.

Could a rise in solar panel theft be a repercussion of energy crisis?

One unexpected repercussion of the energy crisis is a rise in solar panel theft. Police in Germany have warned of a surge in module and inverter theft, and solar farms in the UK face similar risks, writes Rachael Oakley, Head of Crime Intelligence at DeterTech, a security provider.

Is solar theft a problem in the UK?

Rural theft has long been an issue in the UK. It is a sinister practice, with repercussions that are as much emotional, as they are commercial. After all, for a small farm, solar panels are a huge investment. Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals.

How much does a solar theft cost?

Strecke says European solar thefts typically cause €60,000 ($63,900) of damage, when repairs and loss of business are factored in. “Solar crime is on the increase,” says Rachael Oakley, director of crime intelligence at Telford-based DeterTech, formally known as SmartWater Group thanks to its product-marking technology.

Are solar panels stolen?

By way of example, in August, solar panels worth approximately £10 500 were stolen from an energy farm in Northamptonshire. Solar panel theft is not limited to large scale and commercial solar farms either – homes in remote areas are also vulnerable, with thieves reportedly swiping panels from people’s roofs. Why?

Is there a rise in solar crime in 2021 & 2022?

Taylor, presenting at a Solar Crime Open Day event organized by site security company DeterTech and London-based asset manager Schroders, reported a 48% rise in cabling and solar panel theft from solar sites between 2021 and 2022.