Target Hardening: Strengthening Security Against Solar Panel Thefts
25 Feb 2025
In the wake of load shedding's unwelcome return, businesses and homeowners who invested in solar power face a resurging challenge, solar panel theft. To counter this persistent threat, we recommend a proactive strategy known as target hardening.
What is Target Hardening?
Target hardening involves strengthening security measures to make property or assets more difficult to attack or steal. For solar installations, this means creating multiple protective layers to discourage thieves and safeguard your investment.
Key Target Hardening Strategies for Solar Security
Strong physical barriers make a significant difference. Robust perimeter fencing, anti-climb measures, and lockable enclosures around solar installations create meaningful obstacles. Electric fencing can provide an additional layer of protection for larger installations.
Don't overlook the mounting hardware itself. Security bolts, specialised anti-theft fasteners, and lockable brackets significantly increase the time and effort required to remove panels. Concealing wiring reduces access to critical components that thieves typically target first.
Comprehensive surveillance systems are essential. High-quality CCTV cameras with motion detection should cover all angles of your solar array. Real-time monitoring and secure storage of footage provide both deterrence and evidence if needed.
Darkness works in criminals' favour. Motion-activated floodlights around your solar panels dramatically reduce risk by eliminating the cover of darkness thieves rely on.
A visible security presence remains one of the strongest deterrents. Whether through on-site guards or responsive security teams, having security personnel available significantly increases the chances of preventing theft before it occurs.
Integrate technology into your security approach. Alarms, motion detectors, and tamper sensors connected to a security control center ensure immediate response to any breach attempt.
Make your panels less attractive to thieves through identification. Engraving or marking solar panels with unique identifiers makes resale more difficult. For high-value installations, GPS tracking solutions offer additional protection.
Stronger communities create safer environments. Working with neighbouring businesses and residents to share information about suspicious activity creates a network of vigilance that deters criminal activity.
Take Action Before It's Too Late
Solar panels represent a significant investment, and their security deserves serious consideration. Don't wait until after you've been targeted, strengthening your defenses now can prevent significant losses later. Professional security assessments can identify vulnerabilities specific to your installation and recommend targeted improvements.
Get in touch with us here, to learn more.