At the end of 2018, cumulative installed PV capacity worldwide had grown 27% compared to the previous year, reaching some 512 gigawatts. Around one-third of this capacity comes from utility-scale plants.

The success of any PV installation depends on the design of the PV system itself, the quality of the PV components and correct installation. In the case of PV components, the primary focus is on modules, inverters and panel support structures as they represent the largest part of an investment. Cables are often neglected, however poor cabling can result in failures that disrupt power generation, bringing cable replacement costs and a risk of damaging panels or other components. The initial investment in quality PV cables – merely 1-2% of the total installation cost - is immaterial compared to the potential risk stemming from the use of low quality cables. Cables should meet industry standards to ensure they can fulfill operating conditions and are sized properly to enable safe, more durable systems.

“Solar cables are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as UV radiation, moisture and temperature fluctuations as well as wind, snow and rain,” explains Cristina Coli, Solar Application Manager, Prysmian. “Inadequate cables are one of the first components of the system to show failures and interrupting power generation. To avoid power generation interruptions and related losses in revenues, coupled with high replacement costs, it is crucial to use the right products. Every kW lost due to poor quality cables is also a loss in terms of return on investment.”

“To meet the growing demands of today’s solar power markets, Prysmian Group has launched PRYSUN PhotoVoltaic (PV) cables. This is fully compliant with the most widely recognized global standards: European standard EN 50618 and International standard IEC 62930, issued at the end of 2017. For many years, there was no international standard for photovoltaic cables. As a result, many countries relied on inappropriate standards or even used cables that were not suitable for PV applications.”

PRYSUN is the result of synergies between Prysmian Group and General Cables R&D teams worldwide, who have been sharing technologies, capabilities and know-how to find the best solutions. Thanks to Prysmian Group’s global presence, PRYSUN is available regionally with manufacturing in multiple locations on different continents.