Powering solar performance beyond the panels
Intersolar Europe 2026, part of The smarter E Europe show, is one of the world’s leading exhibitions for the solar industry, bringing together innovators, developers, and engineers shaping the future of renewable energy.
As Eland Cables continues to support solar projects globally—providing solar and PV cables solutions that ensure efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability — we highlight below the key solar trends for 2026 and how the right cable specification plays a critical role for your solar projects.
Key solar trends shaping 2026
1. Higher voltage systems (1500V+ and beyond)
Utility-scale solar projects continue to shift toward higher voltage DC systems to reduce losses and improve efficiency.
What this means with regards to cables:
- Increased demand for DC cables
- Enhanced insulation and thermal resistance requirements
- Strict compliance with EN 50618 and IEC standards
2. Growth in utility-scale & hybrid solar projects
Large-scale solar farms and hybrid installations (solar + storage) are expanding rapidly. For the cable sector, this means:
- Longer cable runs with optimised conductor sizing
- Mechanical durability for challenging environments
- Integration with energy storage systems
3. Integration with energy storage & EV infrastructure
Solar is increasingly linked to battery storage systems (BESS) and EV charging infrastructure.
The cable requirements in such instances are:
- Compatibility across DC and AC systems
- Fire performance and safety standards
- Reliable long-term performance under varying loads
4. Emerging applications: floating & agrivoltaics
New solar applications are driving new installation challenges. These are some of the implications regarding cables:
- Water resistance for floating solar
- UV and environmental durability for exposed installations
- Flexible installation solutions
Why solar cable specification matters
The choice of cables has a direct impact on system performance and lifespan. Poor cable selection can result in:
- Energy losses and reduced efficiency
- Overheating and failure risks
- Non-compliance with industry standards
- Increased maintenance and operational costs
At Eland Cables, we support engineers, EPCs, and contractors with expert cable selection advice, ensuring your system is built for performance and longevity.
Download our renewable energy brochure to read more.Our solar cable solutions
We supply a wide range of cables for solar applications, including:
- DC Solar PV Cables (EN 50618 compliant)
- UV-resistant and weatherproof cables
- Low smoke, halogen-free (LSZH) options
- Cables for rooftop, ground-mounted, and utility-scale installations
All supported by:
- Technical expertise
- Fast global delivery
- Full compliance assurance
We work with clients across a wide range of industries and sectors including:
- Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC)
- Renewable energy developers
- Electrical contractors and installers
Eland Cables’ role is simple: deliver the right cable, first and every time, for every solar application.
Speak to a solar cable specialist
Planning a solar project? Our team is here to help you specify the right solution:
