Behind the scenes, we had been working on it for a while, but recently it became official: CBNN specialises in solar farm security. Here is a brief update from February 2025.
This month, we took a great new step: our fitters attended a specialised course on fibre-optic cable welding. Why? Because we lay kilometres of fibreglass every week and we want to carry out this process entirely in-house from now on. This allows us to work faster and more efficiently, without depending on external parties. A great step forward in our mission to make solar parks even safer.
Now you might be thinking: why is fibre optics so important in solar parks? Well, we'll explain that to you. Fibre optics is an essential part of solar farm security these days. This is because it provides a razor-sharp connection. Camera images are transmitted without delay or loss of quality and this is especially important in remote areas, such as solar parks.
In addition, optical fibre is less sensitive to faults and weather conditions than traditional cables. The cables last longer and require less maintenance, which not only saves costs but also improves operational efficiency.
That security of solar parks is important, proved again this month. We were called in at a solar farm where copper cables had been cut and were ready to be collected at a later date. Such thefts not only cause a lot of damage, but can also significantly disrupt the operation of the solar farm.
How could this happen? After all, there was camera surveillance present? Our security scan of the premises revealed that there were still many blind spots in the existing camera system. And criminals make all too clever use of these blind spots. By identifying the weak spots, appropriate measures can be taken.
Below is a picture of the many metres of copper cables that needed to be repaired:
Our solution? Besides adding additional cameras, we also implement an advanced AI server. This technology adds an extra layer of intelligence to detection and can distinguish, for example, between a human, an animal or a vehicle. This means fewer false alarms and faster response to real threats.
For existing solar parks struggling with security problems, this is an interesting development. Through a smart combination of fibre optics, AI and strategically placed cameras, we can counter crime more effectively. And security guards will have to take action less often due to false alarms.
Even in solar parks that are already secured, there may be weaknesses in the system. It is therefore important to be sure that the security covers all corners of the site and meets all applicable requirements. With a security scan, we identify any vulnerabilities and can take very targeted measures.
Moreover, insurers are imposing increasingly stringent requirements on solar farm security. In the future, it will no longer seem obvious that an insurer will always cover all damage caused by a theft. To be prepared for this, we can certify your solar farm. With this certificate, you can show the insurer that the security meets all laws and regulations.
Are you an owner, builder or operator of a solar farm and want your security up and running? Then give us a call. We will be happy to tell you more about it.
Call us 085 744 1944
Or report it here: Failure form