PV Installation Material
The PV installation kit comprises everything that is connected between the module, inverter, storage unit and domestic mains: solar cable sold by the metre, pre-assembled cables, Y-splitters and in-line fuses for the string, connection cables for storage units, MC4 connectors, as well as the tools required for these. Most parts are sourced from Stäubli, Athilex and Growatt.
The categories in the range
Solar cables sold by the metre: Athilex cables of the H1Z2Z2-K type with cross-sections of 4 and 6 mm², each available in red and black so that positive and negative can be distinguished on the roof. The manufacturers specify them for 1,500 V and temperatures ranging from −40 to +90 °C. In addition, there is a green-yellow cable with a cross-section of 16 mm² for equipotential bonding.
Cable assemblies from Stäubli: in-line fuses rated at 15 and 20 A, which are plugged directly into the string cable; Y-splitters in both directions (two plugs to one socket and vice versa), used to connect two modules to a single input; and a pre-assembled 4 mm² cable, 3 m in length.
Connectors from Stäubli: Plugs and sockets from the MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 systems for conductor cross-sections from 4 to 10 mm², branch connectors for MC4-Evo 2, and sealing caps to cover open plugs and sockets until connected.
Connection and terminal cables for specific devices: Cable sets for the storage units Growatt ARK (for the MOD-XH, SPH and SPF inverter series) and SAJ BC2-HV1, as well as 5-metre Schuko connection cables for micro inverters from APSystems, Deye and Growatt (NEO 800 and NEO 1600M-X). For these cables, the exact model designation of the device is decisive, not the brand alone.
Tools: crimping pliers with inserts and a locator, wire strippers, cable cutters, mounting spanner, torque spanner and test probes for MC4 and MC4-Evo 2, all from Stäubli.
Two rules for cabling
Firstly: Connectors must only be mated with counterparts from the same manufacturer and the same series. Mechanically compatible combinations from different manufacturers do not guarantee sufficient contact pressure. Secondly: The cross-section must be selected according to the current and the length of the cable run. A larger cross-section minimises losses over long cable runs; this is determined by the design, not by what’s left on the roll.
Neither of these points is visible in a finished connection. That is why the tool specific to the respective system must be included in the order, and the connectors are crimped, not soldered or clamped.
Where to go next
All cables are grouped under Solar cables, whilst the crimping and assembly tools are listed under Tools for MC4 connectors. Rails, roof hooks and clamps are found under Substructure. The complete PV kits do not contain solar cables; these are added here to match the cable route.
ACTEC supplies the materials but does not carry out the installation. The system is connected to the domestic mains supply by a qualified electrical contractor registered with the network operator.
For photovoltaic systems and their essential components, no value added tax is charged where the conditions of Section 12 (3) of the German VAT Act (UStG) are met. You state during the ordering process whether they apply to you.
Frequently asked questions about PV installation materials
What do I need a Y-splitter for?
A Y-splitter connects two modules in parallel to a single input on the inverter. It is available in two versions, for the positive and negative sides: two plugs to one socket and two sockets to one plug.
When is an in-line fuse advisable?
It provides individual protection for a string, for example when several strings are connected in parallel. The appropriate rated current – 15 or 20 A – is determined by the modules’ data sheet and the system design.
Which cable is suitable for my storage system?
The connection cables are specific to a particular series, for example Growatt ARK for MOD-XH, SPH or SPF. The model designation in the data sheets for the storage system and the inverter is decisive.