The threat of a solar storm

[dead0man]

Anyway, no, I don't really feel threatened by this idea (not sure if Europe is even at risk btw), just as I'm not scared of a terrorist attack. Chances are slim, but if it it happens, it happens and there's nothing you can do about it. Therefore, it's best not to worry about it.

Europe is under just as much threat as any other place that uses electricity.

I look at it like I look at the Yellowstone Caldera and EMP attacks, worst case for any of them, combined with a sh**tty reaction from the powers that be and yeah, we're all hosed.  But a more realistic case, combined with a mediocre response from the powers that be and it will just suck for a bit for the affected, but we'll get through.

[dead0man]

Would Faraday Cages provide protection?

yes, if it's set up right, it would be 100% effective against anything <edit>EMP related </edit>. Just putting whatever you want to protect inside a metal box will help.

The solar threat is inevitable and could be catastrophic if it's a bad one, but not civilization ending.  The worst possible EMP attack on the US (that wouldn't just be a precursor to WWIII) would be an inconvenience and a little expensive.  It will be much worse for whatever organization pulled it off.