IEC 62930:2017

Overview - IEC 62930:2017 for photovoltaic cables (1.5 kV DC)

IEC 62930:2017 specifies requirements for single‑core, cross‑linked insulated power cables with cross‑linked sheaths for the DC side of photovoltaic (PV) systems with a rated DC voltage up to and including 1.5 kV (between conductors and between conductor and earth). The standard covers both halogen‑free low smoke and halogen‑containing cable types and is intended for long‑term outdoor use in demanding climate conditions. Cables conforming to IEC 62930 are suitable for use with Class II equipment (IEC 61140).

Key operational limits defined in the standard:

• Normal continuous maximum conductor temperature: 90 °C
• Short‑term permissible use at 120 °C limited to 20 000 h
• Expected service life under specified conditions: at least 25 years

Key topics and technical requirements

• Construction requirements

  • Single‑core copper conductors (materials and construction requirements referenced)
  • Cross‑linked insulation and cross‑linked sheath materials
  • Separator between conductor and insulation when required

• Insulation and sheath

  • Material selection, thickness and application rules
  • Options for halogen‑free low smoke compounds or halogen‑containing materials
  • Colour and marking conventions for PV use

• Marking and identification

  • Durability and legibility of continuous marking (type, origin, nominal conductor cross‑section, voltage rating, etc.)

• Electrical and mechanical tests

  • Electrical checks for insulation integrity (absence of faults, insulation resistance)
  • Dimensional checks (overall diameter, ovality)
  • Mechanical and environmental testing covered in normative annexes: cold impact, dynamic penetration, UV/weathering resistance, ozone and oil immersion tests, and thermal ageing/thermal endurance assessments

• Performance under fire and smoke

  • Relevant fire and smoke test references (IEC 60332‑1‑2, IEC 61034) included for smoke density and vertical flame propagation

Practical applications - who uses IEC 62930

• PV system designers and engineers specifying DC cabling for systems up to 1.5 kV DC
• Cable manufacturers developing PV‑rated single‑core cross‑linked cables
• Installers and electrical contractors selecting durable outdoor PV cables
• Certification bodies, testing labs and procurement teams evaluating compliance
• Asset owners and O&M teams managing long‑term PV installations where high reliability, UV resistance and thermal endurance are required

Related standards (selected)

• IEC 61140 - Protection against electric shock (Class II equipment)
• IEC 60228 - Conductors of insulated cables
• IEC 60332‑1‑2, IEC 61034 - Fire and smoke testing
• IEC 60216 - Thermal endurance properties
• IEC 60811 series - Non‑metallic materials test methods (UV, ozone, mechanical tests)

IEC 62930 provides a practical framework for specifying and verifying durable, high‑voltage DC cables for modern PV systems, helping stakeholders ensure safety, reliability and long service life in outdoor photovoltaic installations.