Lithuanian MPs block Chinese cos from solar, wind farm control systems

VILNIUS - Lithuanian lawmakers on Tuesday blocked companies from China and other countries posing a threat to national security from getting access to the control systems of solar and wind farm and batteries larger than 100 kW and being able to remotely control them.

79 MPs voted in favor of the amendments to the Law on Electricity, drafted by the Energy Ministry, there was one vote against and six abstentions.

The changes will enter into force on May 1, 2025.

According to the ministry, there are currently more than 1,000 solar and wind farms larger than 100 kW in Lithuania and there are also several batteries of the same capacity, and some of their control systems are Chinese-made and remote-controlled.

Presenting the amendments to the Seimas in October, Energy Vice Minister Inga Ziliene said they were aimed at reduce the risks and threats to the reliable operation and stability of the electricity system, which could be disrupted by the remote use of hostile countries' equipment.

China is among the countries which, according to Lithuania's National Security Strategy, pose a threat to Lithuania's national security and national security interests.