Single Core PV Wire VS 2 Core Solar Cable

In recent years, solar cable manufacturers have introduced two popular types of cables to cater to the diverse needs of solar power systems. These are the single core PV wire and the 2 core solar cable. They both have their strengths and weaknesses that investors and solar power system installers should be aware of before installation. This article will explore their differences, application, and give an overview of their prices.

Firstly,  single core PV wire, also known as TUV solar cable, is an insulated cable used in wiring solar cells or panels in renewable energy systems. The wire has one copper wire conductor surrounded by insulation made from cross-linked polyolefin (XLPO) that helps to protect from UV rays and harsh weather conditions. Its size varies, but the most common one is 4mm2 single core PV cable for solar PV systems. It has excellent electrical conductivity and can resist water, heat, and corrosion, thus making it suitable for use in exposed outdoor environments. Its flexibility also allows it to be easily maneuvered around corners and bends during installation. However, the single core PV wire only has one wire core, making it unsuitable for double circuits, and it requires additional connectors during installation.

On the other hand, a 2 core solar cable has two wire cores (positive and negative) that are typically color-coded red and black. It comes in various sizes, with the 6mm2 DC cable being the commonly used one. This type of cable is insulated with XLPO, making it more durable and resistant to abrasions, harsh weather, heat, and UV rays. Its twin core nature allows for easier installation as it does not require additional connectors for wiring, and serves as a backup in case of any malfunction in one of the cores. Furthermore, it has lower resistance that translates to less power loss during electricity transmission.

When it comes to price, the cost of solar cables varies depending on the manufacturer, dealer, or location. For example, in the United States, the average price of an XLPO solar cable ranges from $0.79/m for 4mm2 2 core to $10.71/m for 25mm2 solar cable, while in the United Kingdom, prices range from as low as £0.69/m for 4mm2 twin core to £7.37/m for 16mm2 solar wire. The overall cost of solar cables depends on various factors, such as quality, material used in insulation, brand reputation, and the cable size.

In terms of applications, both single core PV wire and 2 core solar cables are suitable for a variety of solar applications, but based on the need, a specific type is more appropriate than the other.  The single core PV wire is most suitable for use in uninsulated solar arrays, where installation is not a hassle. It can also be used in conjunction with connectors to create double circuits, enabling more flexibility in design. However, 2 core solar cables are best used in challenging outdoor conditions, where flexibility and durability are critical. They come in handy when wiring solar panels, as they require less connectors while providing more space and an aesthetic layout.