During the Twelfth Five-Year Plan period, China's new energy power generation industry is expected to experience significant growth, particularly in the photovoltaic (PV) sector. This rapid development will inject new momentum into the wire and cable industry. Although the cost of PV systems has decreased in recent years, the decline hasn't met expectations. Building a cost-effective and profitable PV plant remains a top priority for solar manufacturers. Profitability isn’t just about the efficiency of solar modules; it also depends on other seemingly unrelated components. High-quality components are essential to ensure long-term profitability by reducing maintenance costs and system downtime.
Photovoltaic cables play a crucial role in this ecosystem. Often overlooked, these cables connect PV modules to inverters and are vital for the entire system’s performance. If non-specialized cables are used, the lifespan of the system can be compromised. Solar systems operate under harsh conditions, such as high temperatures and UV exposure. In Europe, for example, on sunny days, system temperatures can reach up to 100°C. While materials like PVC, rubber, TPE, and cross-linked polymers are available, most have temperature ratings around 90°C. Rubber and PVC cables rated at 70°C are often used outdoors, which can significantly reduce system longevity.
For PV applications, outdoor cables must withstand UV radiation, ozone, extreme temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure. Low-quality materials may lead to brittle insulation or even complete failure, increasing system losses and the risk of short circuits. Over time, this can also raise the likelihood of fires or personal injury.
During installation and maintenance, cables are frequently exposed to sharp edges, pressure, bending, tension, and impact. If the cable jacket lacks sufficient strength, the insulation can be damaged, leading to system failures, short circuits, or safety hazards.
The "Twelfth Five-Year Plan" period marked a critical phase for China's wire and cable industry. Rapid GDP growth, along with large-scale hydropower projects and the rise of the PV sector, created new opportunities. However, the surge in both large and small companies brought both innovation and challenges. In 2012, slower GDP growth led to increased competition, with many firms cutting corners to remain profitable. Some resorted to producing substandard products, while others were forced to accept low bids, creating bottlenecks in the industry.
As Chinese PV companies develop and construct solar plants, they require specialized cables that directly affect project quality and safety. The quality of wires and cables is a key factor in the competitiveness of the entire PV supply chain. Currently, there is a gap between product quality and user expectations. Quality remains the core of the wire and cable industry, and addressing issues like low-price competition and lack of innovation is essential for sustainable growth.
Industry standards provide much-needed guidance. The "Cable Power System Cable" standard, developed by Jiangsu Chenhao Photovoltaic Technology Co., Ltd. and others, was published in 2012 and aims to address the lack of specific standards for PV cables. It defines cable classifications, technical requirements, and environmental resistance, ensuring compatibility with the 25-year lifespan of PV modules. This helps optimize design and reduce construction and maintenance costs.
Certification plays a vital role in entering international markets. For example, Tianjin Jinshan Wire and Cable Co., Ltd. successfully passed the German Rheinland certification for its PV cables, opening doors to the European market. Third-party certifications ensure products meet global standards, serving as a symbol of quality and trust. In overseas markets, products without proper certification face significant barriers.
Globally, the cable industry is mature, but Asia has become a major production hub due to economic growth in countries like China, India, and Vietnam. Despite fierce competition, the demand for high-quality, certified products continues to rise. Ensuring product quality through rigorous testing and certification is not only a business necessity but also a step toward building a safer and more reliable energy future.
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