H1Z2Z2-K vs PV1-F Solar Cable: Difference & When to Use Each
Quick answer: H1Z2Z2-K and PV1-F are the two mainstream solar PV DC cables, both built from halogen-free cross-linked polyolefin (XLPO) for outdoor, UV-stable, 120 °C service. The practical difference is the standard they answer to: H1Z2Z2-K is the harmonized European type under EN 50618 (the default across the EU), while PV1-F is the older TÜV 2 PfG 1169 type still widely specified in many markets. Electrically and in construction they are nearly identical (single-core, tinned copper, XLPO insulation+jacket). Specify H1Z2Z2-K for new EU projects; PV1-F remains acceptable where the buyer/TÜV spec calls for it. Common sizes: 4 mm² and 6 mm² for string runs, with 2.5 mm² for small arrays.
What Are H1Z2Z2-K and PV1-F?
Both are single-core photovoltaic cables designed for the DC side of a solar array — from the panels to the inverter/combiner. They share the same core construction:
Conductor: flexible tinned copper (class 5), resisting corrosion in outdoor duty.
Insulation + jacket: halogen-free cross-linked polyolefin (XLPO) — the LSZH solar grade explained in our What Is XLPO Cable? guide.
Ratings: 1.5 kV DC, 120 °C conductor, direct-sun and weather resistant, low-smoke halogen-free.
The Real Difference: Standard They Answer To
Aspect | H1Z2Z2-K | PV1-F |
|---|---|---|
Governing standard | EN 50618 (harmonized EU type) | TÜV 2 PfG 1169 (older TÜV type) |
Market default | EU / new projects worldwide | Legacy TÜV-specified projects |
Voltage class | AC 0.6/1 kV, DC 1.5 kV | AC 0.6/1 kV, DC 1.5 kV |
Construction | Tinned Cu + XLPO ins + XLPO jacket | Tinned Cu + XLPO ins + XLPO jacket |
Typical sizes | 2.5 / 4 / 6 mm² (also 10 mm²) | 2.5 / 4 / 6 mm² (also 10 mm²) |
Interchangeable? | Yes in practice for equivalent size/rating | Yes in practice for equivalent size/rating |
Common Sizes and How to Choose
4 mm² — the most common string cable for residential and small C&I arrays.
6 mm² — longer string runs or higher current to reduce voltage drop.
2.5 mm² — small balconies / micro arrays (check local code).
10 mm² — combiner-to-inverter feeders on larger systems.
Sizing should also respect voltage drop over the run; when in doubt, step up to 6 mm². (Plain PVC building wire is not a substitute — see our PVC meaning guide for why.)
Certification: EN 50618 vs TÜV 2 PfG 1169
The two cable types differ mainly in which certification scheme they reference, not in raw performance. EN 50618 is now the harmonized European standard and the default on most datasheets; TÜV 2 PfG 1169 (PV1-F) remains widely recognized, especially where a buyer's spec or regional practice still calls it out. For the broader standard landscape, see our XLPE vs XLPO guide.
Which Should You Specify?
New EU / general projects: specify H1Z2Z2-K (EN 50618) — it is the current harmonized type.
Legacy / TÜV-spec'd projects: PV1-F is still valid and electrically equivalent; match the buyer's stated type to avoid paperwork friction.
Need the cable? Browse our solar PV cables (H1Z2Z2-K / PV1-F, 4/6 mm², tinned copper, XLPO) and matching MC4 connectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between H1Z2Z2-K and PV1-F solar cable?
A: They are functionally near-identical single-core XLPO solar DC cables; the difference is the standard: H1Z2Z2-K follows the harmonized EN 50618, PV1-F follows the older TÜV 2 PfG 1169. Same conductor, insulation, and ratings — choose based on which type your project spec calls for.
Q: Is H1Z2Z2-K better than PV1-F?
A: Not in performance — they are equivalent in construction and rating. H1Z2Z2-K is simply the newer, harmonized EU default. PV1-F remains acceptable where a TÜV spec requires it. Pick the one your buyer/datasheet names.
Q: Can I use 4mm² or 6mm² solar cable for my array?
A: 4 mm² is the standard string size for most residential systems; 6 mm² is used for longer runs or higher current to limit voltage drop. Always size for the actual current and run length, and confirm against local code.
Q: Are these cables halogen-free and UV resistant?
A: Yes. Both use XLPO (halogen-free cross-linked polyolefin) for insulation and jacket, rated 120 °C and built for direct sunlight, weather, and low-smoke fire behavior. That is why they replace PVC for solar — see our What Is XLPO Cable? explainer.
Q: Does solar cable need to comply with EN 50618?
A: For the EU and most international projects, EN 50618 (H1Z2Z2-K) is the expected standard, and TÜV certification is widely required by buyers. Always supply cable with the certification your target market expects.
Written by Engineer Chan, Chief Engineer at SolaCable Technology Co., Ltd. — manufacturer of solar and low-voltage cables for global OEM and distribution buyers, including EN 50618 H1Z2Z2-K and TÜV PV1-F solar PV cables (4/6 mm², tinned copper, XLPO) with matching MC4 connectors.
