Makers of PV connectors, cable couplers increase production

China companies anticipate higher requirement as the trend for renewable energy bolsters the solar power system application market.

The boom in solar power systems fuels optimism in China's PV connectors and cable coupler sector. Suppliers are looking to a steady output increase of 10 to 15 percent in coming years, and are highlighting industry-compliant products to enhance competitiveness.

Makers such as Nantong Tianquan Solar Power Technology Co. Ltd have been boosting yield in recent years to meet the demand upswing. The manufacturer raised its volume by 10 percent in 2015, and will target the same rate in the months ahead.

In releases, makers ensure reliability and life span match that of PV systems, which should last 25 years. To achieve this, they emphasize reduced contact resistance for minimum power loss and greater water resistance for weathering protection. Ningbo Lihui offers an MC4 connector with silver-plated contacts having as low as 0.15mohm contact resistance. The IP65-rated unit has a rivet and self-locking structure for firm connection.

In addition, most local companies have passed the product compatibility tests done by international laboratories such as TÜV, and those for RoHS compliance. At present, they are working to secure more certification, including ETL.

The current selection in China boasts class II safety level, UL94V-0 flame retardancy, pollution degree 2 and more than IP65 rating. The connectors and cable couplers have anti-aging and –UV characteristics as well.

Globally, the PV industry has seen high growth in recent years. Demand for such systems was estimated at 57GW in 2015, jumping 30 percent YoY, according to IHS. By this year's end, the uptick is projected to be at about this rate as well.

In China, the sector benefits from government support. An example is the $0.11/kW subsidy that Beijing offers to PV projects undertaken between 2015 and 2019. The National Energy Administration, meanwhile, has announced the expansion of PV generation capacity. In 2015, the total hit 23.1GW or 30 percent higher than the original target. By 2020, installed capacity will reach 150GW.

In all, these developments will provide greater opportunities for related industries such as the connectors and cable coupler segment. The last consists of more than 100 makers, with the majority locally owned. Most also turn out cables and PV junction boxes.

Over half of the suppliers congregate in Zhejiang province. They include major players such as Ningbo Hengda, Ningbo GZX and Ningbo Zhonghuan. The other key manufacturing hubs are in the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu.

See a comparison table of PV connectors & cable coupler suppliers on GlobalSources.com