What Are the Standards for Photovoltaic Cables in Different Countries?

As the global solar energy market continues to expand, photovoltaic (PV) cables play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of solar power systems. However, not all cables are created equal — and different countries have developed unique standards to regulate their design, performance, and testing.

This article explains the main photovoltaic cable standards used worldwide, their key features, and how to select the right one for your project.

1. Why PV Cable Standards Matter

PV cables are designed specifically for solar energy systems. They connect solar panels to inverters and other electrical components, carrying direct current (DC) under demanding outdoor conditions.

Unlike standard electrical cables, PV cables must withstand:

• Intense sunlight (UV radiation)

• Extreme temperatures

• Ozone and moisture exposure

• Mechanical stress and long service life (25+ years)

That’s why global organizations have established standards and certifications — to ensure consistent quality, safety, and durability in every solar installation.

2. Major Global Photovoltaic Cable Standards Overview

Each standard defines specific requirements for voltage, temperature range, insulation materials, weather resistance, and flame retardancy to match local environmental and safety regulations.

3. European Standard – EN 50618 (H1Z2Z2-K)

EN 50618 is the main photovoltaic cable standard for the European Union, developed by CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization).

Key Features:

• Rated voltage: 1.5 kV DC

• Temperature range: -40°C to +90°C (conductor up to +120°C)

• Structure: Tinned copper conductor, halogen-free cross-linked insulation and sheath

• Resistance: Excellent against UV, ozone, and weather

• Flame retardant and low smoke emission

EN 50618 has largely replaced the older TÜV PV1-F standard across Europe.
Cables like H1Z2Z2-K are now the benchmark for solar installations in the EU and comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

4. International Standard – IEC 62930 (62930 IEC 131)

To unify solar cable standards globally, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) introduced IEC 62930.

Highlights:

• Applicable to: Both single-core and multi-core PV cables

• Voltage rating: Up to 1.8 kV DC

• Design: Uses cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or halogen-free elastomer insulation

• Resistance: UV, weather, water, and abrasion resistant

• Scope: Suitable for fixed installations, floating solar, and desert environments

IEC 62930 helps manufacturers produce cables that meet international trade and export requirements, reducing the need for multiple regional certifications.

5. German TÜV Standard – PV1-F

Before EN 50618 became the EU norm, TÜV 2 PfG 1169/08.2007 (PV1-F) was the most widely used PV cable standard worldwide.

Main Features:

• Rated voltage: 1.0 kV DC

• Temperature range: -40°C to +90°C

• Design: Tinned copper conductor, cross-linked insulation

• Known for: Strict electrical stability and mechanical strength tests

Even though it’s now technically replaced by EN 50618, TÜV PV1-F remains popular in many regions, especially Asia, Africa, and Latin America, due to its strong brand recognition and proven reliability.

6. North American Standard – UL 4703

In the United States and Canada, UL 4703 governs photovoltaic wire performance and safety.

Key Characteristics:

• Rated voltage: Up to 2,000 V DC

• Applicable environments: Wet and dry locations

• Conductor: Usually tinned, bare, or coated copper

• Insulation: XLPE, EPR, or PV wire-rated compounds

• Fire performance: Must pass VW-1 or FT4 flame tests

UL 4703 cables are optimized for rooftop solar systems, ground-mount installations, and large-scale utility projects.
They must meet both UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and CSA (Canadian Standards Association) requirements for North American use.

7. Japanese Standard – PSE / JET PV Wire

Japan’s PV cable market follows the PSE certification system, which stands for Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Material.

Features:

• Regulated by: Japan Electrical Safety & Environment Technology Laboratories (JET)

• Voltage rating: Typically 1.5 kV DC

• Design focus: High resistance to humidity and corrosion

• Characteristics: Halogen-free, flame-retardant, UV-resistant

JET-certified PV wires ensure compliance with Japan’s Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law, making them essential for solar installations within the country.

8. Chinese Standard – GB/T 33733

China’s national photovoltaic cable standard, GB/T 33733, was established to align with international requirements while supporting local production.

Highlights:

• Voltage rating: 1.5 kV DC

• Structure: Tinned copper conductor, XLPE or halogen-free insulation

• Performance: UV, ozone, cold, and flame resistant

• Reference: Based on TÜV PV1-F principles but localized to China’s manufacturing ecosystem

GB/T 33733 is now widely adopted in both domestic solar projects and export cables from Chinese manufacturers.

9. Comparative Overview

This table shows that while each country has its own regulations, the overall goals remain consistent — ensuring safety, reliability, and long-term performance under harsh environmental conditions.

10. Choosing the Right PV Cable Standard

Selecting the right PV cable depends on your target market and project location:

• For European projects: Choose EN 50618 H1Z2Z2-K compliant cables.

• For global compatibility: Opt for IEC 62930 certified cables.

• For North America: Use UL 4703 certified PV wire.

• For Japan or China: Ensure PSE or GB/T 33733 compliance.

If your company serves multiple international markets, it’s best to use cables that hold dual or multiple certifications, such as EN 50618 + TÜV + UL. This ensures flexibility and easy import/export approval.

11. Conclusion

Photovoltaic cable standards may vary by country, but their shared purpose is clear — to guarantee safety, efficiency, and durability in solar energy systems worldwide.

Understanding these standards helps solar professionals and distributors ensure compliance, reliability, and customer trust.

Whether you’re installing a rooftop system in Europe, a solar farm in the U.S., or a hybrid project in Asia, always choose cables that meet the proper regional and international certifications.

Professional Tip:

For EN 50618, TÜV PV1-F, UL 4703, IEC 62930, and GB/T 33733 certified photovoltaic cables, Danyang Winpower offers high-quality solar wiring solutions engineered for global applications.
Contact us to find the best cable for your solar energy project.