Solar panel cable, often adapted from other types of cable such as welding cable, is an electrical conductor used in some capacity or other in solar power systems.
Here’s what you need to know from a very high level.
What Solar Panel Cable Is Used for
Solar panel cable is used to link solar panels, for power transmission from the panels to battery banks, and for power transmission to and from charge controllers. Solar cable is also used, via the inverter, to convert the DC output of the panels themselves to AC that homes and businesses can use.
As you might imagine, given the niche application, special cables are required for these purposes. Here are some of the traits commonly encountered in solar panel cable.
UV-Resistant
Arguably the most important aspect of solar panel cable is that it is protected by a UV-resistant insulative jacket.
Some solar panel cables are made with EPDM rubber insulation that is naturally UV-resistant. It should be obvious why this is a selling point.
Solar panel cables are theoretically to be exposed to direct sunlight all day, every day, and sunlight is quick to break down organic compounds – like plastic.
Therefore, UV-resistant solar panel cables are a must as they will last longer and are safer, too.
Weather Resistant
General weather resistance – which means resistance to rain, wind, ice, snow, and freeze and thaw cycles, is also necessary for solar panel cable.
If the cable isn’t weather resistant, the insulation will break down sooner, exposing the conductors to corrosion, which will either hobble the system or result in overheating which then can cause fires.
So weather resistant cable, like UV-resistant cable, is a must.
Abrasion Resistant
All else being equal, abrasion resistant solar panel cables offer better value than those that are less durable.
This is not only from a stance that general durability is worth more – but linked to the fact that animals have a habit of nesting under and around solar panels.
Which means the cables might be subjected to a lot of traffic – even so much as being gnawed on by rodents.
So the tougher the cable, the better.
Chemical Resistant
Lastly, if you can get solar panel cables that are chemical resistant, and which will stand up better to acids, alkalis, oil and gas, all the better. These will last longer than cables that have no such chemical resistance, and will keep the system running for longer.
The Importance of Using Appropriate Solar Panel Cable
Using solar panel cable of inappropriate gauge produces the risk that the cables themselves will overheat during risk, which can melt the insulation, causing arcing and fires.
Beyond that, if you use cable that is not rated for use as solar panel cable, and subsequently lacks the UV and weather resistant requisite to make it appropriate, you also run the risk of premature breakdown, fires, and worse.
Solar panel cable may be specialized but it is not prohibitively expensive by the standards of electrical conductors. Make sure you use only what is approved for the application at hand in the standards outlined by the NEC or National Electrical Code.
Want to Learn More About Solar Panel Cable?
If you need more information about the standards associated with solar panel cable or are interested in seeing what options are available, check out what’s in stock at EWCS Wire.
They carry a wide range of specialized electrical wire and cable, including solar panel cable. For more information visit their website or get in touch with them directly at [email protected] or at 800-262-1598.
