H1Z2Z2-K vs PV1-F Solar Cable: Which One Does Your PV Project Need?

Solar cables connect PV modules, combiner boxes and inverters, and they must survive 25 years or more outdoors. Two names appear on almost every DC cable datasheet: H1Z2Z2-K and PV1-F. This short guide explains the difference so you can specify the right cable for your market.

1. The standards behind the names

H1Z2Z2-K is the designation defined by EN 50618, the European standard for photovoltaic cables. It covers single-core cables rated DC 1.5 kV with halogen-free, cross-linked insulation and sheath. PV1-F comes from the earlier German specification TÜV 2PfG 1169/08.2007, rated DC 1.0 kV (some versions 1.8 kV max). The international standard IEC 62930 (cable marking "62930 IEC 131") is closely aligned with EN 50618 and is widely accepted outside Europe.

2. Key technical differences

• Voltage: H1Z2Z2-K and IEC 62930 cables are rated DC 1.5 kV, matching modern 1500 V string designs. PV1-F is typically DC 1.0 kV.
• Materials: both use tinned copper Class 5 conductors and cross-linked, halogen-free compounds (XLPO), resistant to UV, ozone and weather.
• Temperature: H1Z2Z2-K is tested for -40 °C to +90 °C continuous operation and 120 °C for 20,000 hours.
• Fire behaviour: EN 50618 cables are low smoke, halogen free and flame retardant to EN 60332-1-2.

3. Which one should you choose?

For projects in Europe, and for any new utility-scale plant using 1500 V inverters, choose H1Z2Z2-K (EN 50618) or IEC 62930. PV1-F remains acceptable for some 1000 V residential systems and for markets where it is still listed in local specifications. If your EPC contract or utility requires a certificate, ask the supplier for the actual TÜV certificate number and test report, not only a datasheet.

4. Common sizes

4 mm² and 6 mm² are the most common string cable sizes; 10–240 mm² are used for main DC feeders. Red and black jackets make polarity easy to identify on site, and 100 m coils or 500–1000 m drums are typical packaging.

TKG CHINA solar cables

TKG CHINA manufactures solar PV cables certified by German TÜV to EN 50618 and IEC 62930, plus TÜV-certified aluminium alloy PV cable to PPP 11029B:2024. See product details or send us your project quantity for a fast quotation.