What Are the Main Types of Photovoltaic Cables?

1. Introduction

In every solar power system, choosing the right type of cable is critical to ensure safety, performance, and long-term reliability. Photovoltaic cables, also known as solar cables or PV wires, are specially designed for connecting solar panels, inverters, junction boxes, and other components in solar installations.
Different photovoltaic cable types are available depending on voltage, environmental conditions, and international standards. Understanding these types helps project engineers and installers select the right product for their application and regional requirements.

2. What Defines a Type of Photovoltaic Cable

The classification of photovoltaic cables depends on several key factors:

• Conductor Material: Most PV cables use tinned copper for excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, while aluminum is sometimes used in large-scale installations to reduce cost and weight.

• Insulation and Sheath Materials: Common materials include XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) and other halogen-free compounds that provide superior heat, chemical, and UV resistance.

• Voltage Rating: PV cables are designed to handle 600V, 1000V, or 1500V DC, depending on the solar system’s configuration.

• Temperature Range: Typically from -40°C to +120°C, suitable for harsh outdoor environments.

• Certifications and Standards: Compliance with global standards such as IEC, TÜV, UL, and PSE ensures product safety and performance consistency.

By considering these aspects, you can determine which type of photovoltaic cable best fits your installation.

3. Common International Standards for Photovoltaic Cables

a. EN 50618 / IEC 62930 (H1Z2Z2-K)

This is the current European standard for photovoltaic cables.

• Voltage rating: up to 1500V DC

• Features: halogen-free, flame-retardant, UV and ozone resistant

• Applications: solar module interconnections, rooftop and ground-mounted systems

The H1Z2Z2-K cable is now widely accepted in global markets due to its durability and compliance with modern solar system requirements.

b. TÜV PV1-F

An older but still popular German certification, widely used across Europe and Asia.

• Voltage rating: 1000V DC

• Flexible and weather-resistant design

• Excellent resistance to ozone, sunlight, and extreme temperatures

TÜV PV1-F cables are often used in medium and small-scale solar installations.

c. UL 4703 (PV Wire)

The UL 4703 standard is used in North America.

• Rated for wet or dry locations

• Withstands up to 2000V DC

• Designed for exposed outdoor environments

These cables are ideal for commercial and utility-scale projects in the United States and Canada.

d. PSE PV Wire

In Japan, photovoltaic cables must comply with PSE (Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Materials) certification.

• Focuses on electrical safety and environmental endurance

• High UV and temperature resistance

• Required for all Japan-based PV projects

4. Main Types of Photovoltaic Cables (By Structure & Application)

a. Single-Core Photovoltaic Cable

• Description: Contains one conductor (usually tinned copper) with insulation and an outer sheath.

• Use: Commonly connects solar modules in series or links panels to the junction box.

• Example: H1Z2Z2-K Single Core PV Cable

• Advantages: Simple structure, high flexibility, easy to install.

b. Double-Core (Twin-Core) Photovoltaic Cable

• Description: Two insulated conductors combined in one sheath.

• Use: Suitable for compact systems, portable solar applications, and installations requiring polarity pairing.

• Example: TÜV PV1-F Dual Core Cable

• Advantages: Reduces cable clutter and simplifies wiring.

c. Armored Photovoltaic Cable

• Description: Includes an additional metallic armor layer (steel wire or aluminum tape) for mechanical protection.

• Use: Ideal for ground-mounted systems or buried installations.

• Advantages: Resistant to rodents, external impacts, and mechanical stress.

d. Floating Solar PV Cable

• Description: Designed for floating solar farms installed on lakes, reservoirs, or the sea.

• Use: Provides high resistance to water, UV radiation, and continuous immersion.

• Example: AD8 Floating Solar Cable

• Advantages: Waterproof, durable, and suitable for wet environments.

e. Anti-Rodent / Anti-Termite Photovoltaic Cable

• Description: The outer sheath includes additives that repel rodents and insects.

• Use: Common in agricultural, rural, or desert installations.

• Advantages: Prevents cable damage and system downtime caused by pests.

f. Aluminum Core Solar Cable

• Description: Uses aluminum conductors instead of copper.

• Use: Large solar farms or long-distance power transmission lines.

• Advantages: Lighter, cost-effective, and suitable for large-scale installations.

5. Comparison Table: Different PV Cable Types

6. How to Choose the Right Photovoltaic Cable Type

Selecting the right photovoltaic cable depends on several factors:

1. System Voltage: Check if your system operates at 600V, 1000V, or 1500V DC.

2. Installation Environment: Rooftop, desert, floating, or underground applications each require different protection levels.

3. Certification Requirements: Ensure the cable meets IEC, UL, TÜV, or PSE standards based on your region.

4. Mechanical Protection: Choose armored or anti-rodent cables for areas exposed to physical damage.

5. Cost and Efficiency: Copper cables offer higher conductivity; aluminum cables offer lighter weight and lower cost.

Selecting the correct type ensures maximum efficiency, system safety, and compliance with international regulations.

7. Conclusion

Photovoltaic cables are more than just electrical connectors — they are the lifelines of solar power systems. Each type serves a specific function, from standard single-core cables for panel connections to armored or floating cables for special environments.

Using the right type of certified PV cable ensures your solar project operates safely, efficiently, and reliably for decades.

If you’re looking for high-quality photovoltaic cables, including H1Z2Z2-K, TÜV PV1-F, UL 4703, or custom-designed solar cables, contact Danyang Winpower today. We provide durable, certified, and cost-effective solutions for global solar installations.