Solar Power

Commercial solar power relies on large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants, which draw energy from hundreds of thousands of discrete panels. When the sun strikes one of these panels its PV cells absorb the energy, generating an electrical field. The electricity then passes through an inverter on its way to a battery. PV cable is a single insulated conductor used to interconnect the solar panels (or modules) in a solar farm.

Neither individual panels nor solar farms could function without a network of durable solar power wires, cables, and connectors. For this vital interconnection, solar energy wires and cables are used to connect these units and distribute the generated current. PV wiring is suitable for use in grounded and ungrounded photovoltaic power systems, generally rated up to 2 kV, in free air, raceways or direct burial in accordance with the NEC (United States) or Canadian Electrical Code. When leveraging open air installation wires, wires are tied to racking which offers a fast and cost-effective solution.

How Solar Cables Support Large-Scale Renewable Energy Equipment

Solar panels themselves consist of frames that contain glass-covered solar cells. These cells are the units that generate charge in response to sunlight. The solar panels (or modules) interconnect, resulting in strings, and lead back to a combiner box. Monitoring systems track energy yield and alert technicians to faults. These components work together to create solar energy for commercial buildings.

Solar Energy Cables

What are Solar Cables?

Cables for solar systems are a collection of multiple solar wires bound together by a jacket. They can accommodate higher voltages and may be used for connections above or below ground. Solar cables are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including UV rays, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

Types of Solar Cables

Solar cables differ based on their type, number, and arrangement of conductors, which determines their performance characteristics. Low-, medium-, and high-voltage cables are all available to fulfill different roles in a facility.

Another important distinction is whether a cable is compatible with grounded or ungrounded systems.

Selection Considerations

Selection considerations for cables are similar to those for wires:

• Size: The selected conductor size must be able to safely carry the maximum current generated by the system. Selecting a conductor size in accordance with the NEC or the Canadian Electrical Code is required for a safe, Code compliant installation.
• Insulation: Cables are more likely to be used outdoors or underground, so they need to be able to resist sunlight, moisture, varying temperatures, and chemical exposures. Ensure that the type and thickness of a cable’s insulation suits your application.
• Cable Certification: Renewable energy cables should typically be UL-listed or CSA approved.

AWG Solar Power Wire & Cable Supplier

American Wire Group has the experience you can trust in the solar energy sector. We have sold over 87 million feet of photovoltaic wire and cable in over 1,400 shipments.

AWG offers a full range of wire and cable suitable for solar power applications.

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