Solar projects heavily depend on balance-of-system components like cables, connectors, and junction boxes, which form the electrical backbone of installations. In India, the wires and cables industry is expected to grow significantly, with solar being a rapidly expanding segment. Manufacturers are scaling up production and investing in advanced technologies like electron-beam cross-linking to meet international standards and comply with mandatory quality guidelines.
DC solar cables are evolving to meet higher voltage requirements, prompting companies like RR Kabel and KEI Industries to expand production capacities. Similarly, AC cables are being developed to handle medium to extra-high voltages for grid interconnection. Domestic production of connectors and junction boxes is also increasing, with companies like DhaSh PV Technologies focusing on innovation and automation.
Technological advancements include the shift to e-beam cross-linking, the introduction of aluminum-core solar cables, and the development of smart cables for real-time monitoring. Connectors now feature improved safety designs and smart monitoring capabilities, while junction boxes are being designed to handle higher currents safely.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain, such as the use of low-quality imports in rooftop solar projects and limited availability of compliant components for utility-scale projects. Stricter enforcement of quality standards and financial incentives for domestic manufacturing could address these issues. With continued innovation and policy support, India is poised to become a global hub for solar components, further accelerating the adoption of solar energy.
