In this guide, we'll discuss the rise in solar farm theft, the solar site security systems available in the UK, the advantages of remote monitoring services and how partnering with WCCTV can help.
The rapid expansion of solar farms across the UK has transformed the nation’s renewable energy landscape. As these sites multiply, they have become prime targets for criminals seeking to exploit valuable assets.
To protect these investments from theft, vandalism and operational disruptions, solar farm security has now become a critical necessity.
Why UK Solar Farms are Prime Targets for Criminals
Renewable energy sites, like solar farms, wind farms and battery storage facilities, are increasingly being targeted by opportunistic thieves.
Their remote locations, limited physical security and delayed emergency response create ideal conditions for theft of high-value assets like solar panels, inverters and copper cabling.
Below, we highlight the most significant solar farm crime concerns:
Theft and organised crime
- Copper cable theft: The leading threat UK solar farms face is copper cable theft. As of June 2025, copper prices were 6.85% up compared to the same time the previous year, making it a prime target for black-market sales.
- Construction phase vulnerability: Solar panel farms under construction are particularly vulnerable. Large numbers of uninstalled panels and cabling stored on-site make it easier for thieves to steal in bulk. Organised criminal gangs specifically hone in on these sites because they know valuable materials are more accessible and often undermonitored.
Vandalism, trespassing and protest activity
- Repeat vandalism: Once a solar farm is targeted, the risk of repeat attacks rises. Criminals either return immediately or wait until stolen equipment is replaced.
- Trespassing: Isolated and often lacking sufficient security fencing, solar farms may be targeted by trespassers and squatters. Without proper access control, these individuals can cause damage to perimeter fencing and electrical infrastructure, raising safety concerns.
- Protest risks: Although renewable energy sources are largely supported, some groups may target solar farms due to environmental concerns about land use or wildlife impact. These protests may escalate to vandalism and damage.
Operational disruptions and increases
- Power generation losses: Any damage to panels, cables or inverters results in immediate drops in output. Downtime equals lost revenue, costly emergency repairs and in some cases, breaches of supply contracts.
- Insurance premium increases: Repeat incidents or lack of proper solar farm CCTV can result in higher premiums, policy exclusions or even denied claims if security measures aren’t sufficient.
With rising crime targeting high-value solar site assets, the importance of solar farm security isn't optional anymore, but vital for protecting your investments.
What Inadequate Solar Farm Security Really Costs
Weak security measures expose solar farms to financial and operational challenges far beyond replacing stolen equipment.
Equipment replacement costs
Theft costs are substantial. A single incident of copper cabling theft can cost solar farms thousands of pounds, while stolen photovoltaic panels and inverters push losses much higher.
For example, a 50 kW solar PV system can cost around £30,000 to replace, and the cost of replacing 10 km of 4 mm² cabling alone is at least £28,000.
Revenue loss
Every day that a solar farm operates below capacity due to theft or damage represents lost revenue. Even if only a small percentage of panels are affected, the cumulative impact on annual energy generation can be significant, especially under long-term energy supply contracts.
Insurance claim complications
Many insurance policies require evidence of criminal activity to process claims. Without proper incident footage, such as CCTV coverage, you may find your claims rejected, leaving you to bear the full cost of replacement and repair.
Regulatory compliance risks
Solar farms typically operate under strict frameworks and contractual duties. Security incidents that lead to prolonged downtimes can result in penalties or breach of contract from energy purchasers.
Public liability risks
Injury to intruders or trespassers can lead to legal action. If an intruder is harmed on your solar farm, your business may face public liability claims, especially if basic security measures, like fencing or warning signs, are missing or insufficient.
Solar Farm Security Solutions Available in the UK
Security fencing, CCTV surveillance and professional monitoring services are just a few security solutions available for solar farms in the UK. Let's take a closer look:
Physical security measures
- Perimeter fencing: High-spec welded mesh, compliant with British anti-intrusion standards, is widely used on solar farm perimeter security fencing. With perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDs) and monitored access control gates, this secure fencing makes it more difficult for thieves to transport panels and cables off-site.
- Tamper-proof fixings: Anti-tamper screws, reinforced brackets, locking clamps and durable padlocks should be used to prevent the easy removal of equipment as opposed to loose chains which can be easily cut.
CCTV for solar farms
- Fixed vs mobile solar farm surveillance: Traditional fixed CCTV systems provide continuous coverage of fixed areas, but aren't ideal if your site layout changes. Mobile and redeployable systems offer great flexibility, with some models featuring add-ons, such as ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) and Time-Lapse Video Cameras.
- CCTV Towers: A fully self-contained temporary CCTV system designed to provide surveillance for sites without fixed infrastructure. It functions as both a visible deterrent and live monitoring tool, reducing theft, trespass and vandalism without permanent installations.
- Infrared and thermal imaging: Advanced camera systems equipped with infrared and thermal imaging provide day-to-night critical infrastructure security. Our CCTV Towers stand up to 6 metres tall and provide near-360° camera coverage, ensuring comprehensive protection across your site.
Professional monitoring services
- 24/7 monitoring vs manned guards: While on-site security has its place, professional 24/7 monitoring offers full-spec, day-to-night surveillance at a fraction of the cost. Trained security operators assess threats in real-time, initiate immediate response protocols and eliminate the overhead of hiring physical security.
- Recording vs live monitoring: Basic systems record footage that can be viewed at a later stage but provide no real-time site protection. Remote live monitoring services, on the other hand, allow for immediate action when security threats are detected, featuring live voice-down audio challenges and sirens to deter intruders.
- Real-time threat response: Our CCTV systems include keyholding and alarm response for smooth emergency service integration. When a threat is detected, you're informed and your site is protected, ensuring someone is ready to deal with it, so you don’t have to.
5 Benefits of Solar Farm Security in the UK
The benefits of professional solar farm security systems, like advanced CCTV cameras and state-of-the-art towers, go beyond stopping thieves. They offer tangible value across your entire site operations, giving you the assurance that your assets are protected at all times.
- Theft prevention and asset protection
Efficient security measures deter intruders, protecting valuable solar panels, cables and equipment from theft, vandalism and unauthorised access in isolated locations. - Reduced downtime
Detection software and rapid response to security breaches minimise operational disruptions, ensuring business continuity. - Insurance compliance
Enhanced security operations with active monitoring solutions help meet insurer requirements, potentially lowering premiums and providing smoother claim processes. - Cost effectiveness
Investing in high-quality, cost-effective security solutions reduces losses from theft and damage, ultimately saving money on costly repairs and lost revenue. Specifically, our Rapid Deployment CCTV Towers can save you up to 88% on your security costs compared to manned guarding. - Remote monitoring
24/7 remote CCTV monitoring ensures threat detection in real-time with rapid response from emergency services. This is particularly beneficial for unmanned, remote locations.
Fully-Managed Solar Farm Security Solutions
Here's how we secure solar farms across the UK with innovative, cost-effective security solutions.
Site assessments and installation
We understand that no two solar farms are the same, which is why we take a tailored approach for every client. Our security experts conduct free site assessments to evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most suitable CCTV system for your location.
Our qualified engineers then handle the complete installation of all equipment, whether it's Rapid Deployment CCTV Towers, Redeployable CCTV Systems, Time Lapse Video Camera or permanent CCTV installations.
System configuration and setup
Once installed, our team configures your entire security system to ensure optimal performance, including:
- Testing all detection zones
- Setting up video analytics
- Installing alarms and voice-down audio systems
- Providing you with our free and unlicensed viewing software/mobile app
- Commissioning any Time Lapse Video Cameras with our video editing professionals
Remote monitoring and diagnostics
All of our Rapid Deployment CCTV systems feature in-built regular remote diagnostics checks via our Heartbeat software, which includes:
- Connection issues
- Camera failures
- Hard disk failures
- Recording issues
- Time and date inaccuracy
90% of issues are resolved remotely, eliminating the need for costly site visits.
24/7 Keyholding and alarm response
Our Rapid Deployment CCTV systems deliver live footage directly to NSI Gold Accredited monitoring centres, where trained security experts assess threats in real-time. When incidents occur, our mobile keyholding and alarm response team takes immediate action, including:
- Issuing an audio warning
- Dispatching mobile guards
- Contacting the police
Technical support and reporting
Our fully-managed security service includes ongoing support and preventative maintenance throughout your contract period. To keep you informed, you receive:
- Detailed incident reports
- System uptime analytics
- False alarm summaries
- Operational functions
This proactive, transparent reporting allows you to evaluate the performance of our security systems while ensuring peace of mind for your solar farm investment.
Solar Farm Surveillance Comparison: WCCTV vs Alternatives
Our fully-managed systems outperform traditional CCTV by providing rapid deployment, independent operation and proactive live monitoring by trained security personnel.
But don't take our word for it, see for yourself:
| Feature | Traditional CCTV | WCCTV Towers |
| Cost | High upfront costs ranging from £5,000 to £19,000+ | Competitive all-in-one pricing with flexible hiring options |
| Response Time | No active response | Immediate action and mobile keyholding services |
| Monitoring | Recording only | 24/7 remote monitoring |
| Coverage | Limited surveillance due to fixed structures | Near-360° camera coverage for complete site protection |
| Installation | Anywhere from 6 hours to several days | Less than 20 minutes (for standard setups) |
| Power Requirements | Mains electricity required | Solar-powered (up to 20 weeks) |
This comparison demonstrates why our mobile tower solutions have become the preferred choice for solar farm CCTV across the UK. Our combination of rapid deployment, comprehensive coverage and professional monitoring delivers superior protection at competitive costs.
Download our brochures to see how WCCTV compares.
Why Choose WCCTV for Your Solar Farm Security
Here's why solar farms in the UK trust us with their security needs.
Nationwide coverage
With 6 regional hubs across the UK, we offer comprehensive coverage from Scotland to the South West. Our network of local engineers ensures fast deployment, efficient servicing and quick response when you need it.
Industry leaders
As the UK's leading supplier of rapidly installed, mobile CCTV systems, we've delivered targeted surveillance and temporary security solutions for over 20-years.
Our approach is built around solving real-world problems, backed by a world-class customer service and support team.
Proven results
Clients can save up to 88% compared to traditional security guarding by switching to our fully-managed CCTV Tower systems. We manage the entire process from installation to decommission, so you can focus on running your site.
Compliance
The remote monitoring centres we utilise hold NSI Gold accreditation, the highest level of recognition in the security industry. We ensure all our operations align with ISO and ESG compliance standards, supported by regular annual audits to maintain the highest levels of accountability and performance.
Peace of mind
Our solar farm security systems provide continuous monitoring even at the most remote sites. Our systems are designed to save time, reduce risk and improve operational efficiency for your peace of mind.
Get Started With Solar Farm Security in the UK With WCCTV
We provide fully-managed, Mobile CCTV solutions for solar farms, including CCTV Towers, Redeployable CCTV Cameras, Body Cameras and Site Condition Monitoring Systems, all designed for rapid deployment and remote operation.
Our systems run autonomously, deliver live and recorded footage via secure mobile networks and are powered by environmental energy sources, making them perfect for remote or off-grid sites.
Whether you're protecting a single solar site or managing multiple solar farms, our flexible rental options give you professional-grade security without long-term commitments.
With over 20-years of experience in wireless security systems, WCCTV is your trusted partner in protecting what matters most.
You don't need to manage security alone. Talk to us today
FAQs about Solar Farm Security in the UK
How can I secure my solar farm in the UK?
Securing your solar farm requires a multifaceted approach, combining security fencing, surveillance systems and professional remote monitoring services.
Do UK solar farms need security?
Due to the increased rise in solar farm crime, it's highly recommended for renewable energy plants like solar farms to invest in proper security.
Do solar farms need surveillance for insurance purposes in the UK?
Many UK insurers require evidence of security measures and incident documentation before processing claims. Advanced CCTV cameras with infrared and thermal imaging capabilities ensure smooth claim processes while potentially reducing monthly/annual premiums.
Are CCTV Towers environmentally friendly?
Generally, most CCTV Towers utilise solar power, backed by environmentally friendly fuel cells that provide many weeks of power. This means you won't have to run generators to keep them going, reducing your carbon footprint and aligning with the UK government's Net Zero strategy.
