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Solar panels are a worthy investment for homeowners and businesses, but installations can get costly if the wrong cable sizes are used. We recommend that you use CableHero, a solar cable size calculator that complies with AS/NZS 3008 for any solar power installation.
Unlike most electrical installations, solar panel systems are exposed to tougher conditions. So, you have to select solar cables that have high resistance to heat and moisture, and should also be UV resistant.
Normal electrical cables should never be used as a substitute or replacement to high quality cables for solar panel system applications.
There are two main wires used in residential and commercial solar power systems: USE-2 wire and Photovoltaic (PV) wire.
What’s the difference between USE-2 wires and Photovoltaic (PV) wires? Which one should you use?
The term USE-2 wire means Underground Service Entrance Cable. They are typically used for linking service equipment terminals and are primarily found underground. That being the case, USE-2 wires are only rated to handle 90°C in wet or dry conditions.
On the other hand, PV wires are exclusively used for joining PV modules and were designed to handle 90°C in wet conditions and 150°C in dry conditions.
USE-2 wires are commonly used in areas that do not demand a high level of flexibility. This type of cable can be produced with either stranded or solid conductors.
PV wires have thicker insulation for added protection. And because PV wires are used solely in solar panels, it must be flexible and can only be manufactured from stranded wires.
When PV arrays are ungrounded, only PV wires are suitable for the system. But both USE-2 wires and PV wires can be used in grounded arrays.
For more tips and information about solar system cables, read our PV Solar Cable Sizing Guide.
Try CableHero. Our high performing cable sizing calculator can help you choose your solar cables correctly. Calculate the right solar cable sizes while taking into account all the important factors for your solar power installation to comply with AS/NZS 3008. Register for a free trial today!
Disclaimer: Although CableHero provides important and accurate tips and information through this website, CableHero does not make any representations or warranties as to the completeness, precision, trustworthiness, or timeliness of such information, and CableHero does not claim any duty to be held liable from the usage of the information.
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