DC Cable Price Pakistan 2025: PKR 150-1000 Complete Guide
DC cable prices in Pakistan range from PKR 150-1,000 per meter depending on size and specifications. 4mm cables cost PKR 180-280, 6mm cables PKR 250-400, 10mm cables PKR 450-600, and 16mm cables PKR 800-1,000 per meter. Prices vary by manufacturer, insulation type, and regional location.
Are you tired of watching your electricity bills climb higher each month? You’re not alone. With power outages disrupting daily life and rising energy costs eating into family budgets, thousands of Pakistani homeowners are turning to solar power. But here’s the catch – choosing the wrong DC cables can cost you thousands and reduce your solar system’s efficiency by up to 20%.
The fear of buying incompatible components or overpaying for substandard cables keeps many people stuck with unreliable grid power. Today, I’ll walk you through everything about DC cable pricing in Pakistan. You’ll learn how to slash your electricity bills by 70-80% with the right cable choices and gain the energy independence you’ve been dreaming of.
Introduction to DC Cables in Pakistan
What are DC Cables?
DC cables carry direct current electricity from solar panels to your inverter or battery system. Unlike AC cables that change direction 50 times per second, DC current flows in one direction, making these cables essential for solar installations where consistent power flow determines system efficiency.
Think of DC cables as the arteries of your solar system. Just like your body needs healthy arteries for proper blood flow, your solar setup needs quality DC cables for optimal power transmission.
These specialized cables handle voltages from 12V to 1500V. They’re built tougher than regular house wiring because they face direct sunlight, rain, and temperature swings from 40°C summers to cold winters.
Importance in Solar Energy Systems
DC cables directly impact your system’s performance and safety. Poor quality cables create resistance, which means power loss. A 5% power loss on a 5kW system costs you PKR 15,000 annually in lost electricity generation.
Quality DC cables ensure maximum power transfer from panels to your home. They also prevent dangerous situations like overheating, which can cause fires or damage expensive equipment.
The right cable size prevents voltage drop over long distances. This matters because if your panels are 50 meters from your inverter, undersized cables will waste precious electricity..
Market Overview in Pakistan
Pakistan’s DC cable market has grown 300% since 2020, driven by increasing solar adoption. Major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad account for 60% of total sales.
Local manufacturers like Long Age Cables and MCI now compete with international brands. This competition has driven prices down by 15-20% while improving quality standards.
The government’s net metering policy has boosted demand, especially for residential installations. Most homeowners now understand that quality cables are worth the investment for long-term savings.
DC Cable Price Analysis 2025
2.1 Current Market Prices
Here’s the reality about DC cable pricing – you get what you pay for. Cheap cables might save you PKR 5,000 upfront but can cost PKR 50,000 in system failures and reduced efficiency over 10 years.
4mm DC Cable Prices
Brand | Price per Meter (PKR) | Insulation Type | Warranty |
Fast Cables | 180-220 | PVC | 5 years |
Long Age | 200-250 | PVC/XLPE | 10 years |
MCI Cables | 190-230 | PVC | 5 years |
Royal Classic | 175-210 | PVC | 3 years |
Pakistan Cables | 195-240 | XLPE | 7 years |
4mm DC cables work perfectly for small residential systems up to 2kW. They handle 25-30 amps safely and cost-effectively connect rooftop panels to ground-mounted inverters. Most homeowners choose 4mm for distances under 30 meters.
These cables suit single-story homes with compact solar installations. They’re also popular for RV and boat applications where space and weight matter.
Quality 4mm cables resist UV damage for 25+ years. Cheaper variants might crack or fade within 5 years, especially in Karachi’s coastal humidity or Lahore’s extreme heat.
6mm DC Cable Prices
Brand | Price per Meter (PKR) | Current Rating | Special Features |
Fast Cables | 250-300 | 35A | UV Resistant |
Long Age | 280-350 | 40A | Halogen Free |
MCI Cables | 260-320 | 35A | Tin Coated |
Royal Classic | 240-290 | 32A | Double Insulation |
Pakistan Cables | 270-330 | 38A | Temperature Rated |
6mm DC cables are the sweet spot for most Pakistani homes with 3-5kW solar systems. They carry 35-40 amps safely and handle longer cable runs up to 50 meters without significant voltage drop. This size offers the best balance between cost and performance.
Most solar installers recommend 6mm for standard residential installations. They provide safety margin for future system expansion and handle Pakistan’s extreme weather conditions.
The slightly higher cost over 4mm cables pays for itself through reduced power losses. A typical home saves PKR 8,000-12,000 annually in electricity bills with proper 6mm cabling.
10mm DC Cable Prices
Brand | Price per Meter (PKR) | Applications | Current Capacity |
Fast Cables | 450-520 | Commercial | 65A |
Long Age | 480-600 | Industrial | 70A |
MCI Cables | 460-550 | Large Residential | 65A |
Royal Classic | 440-510 | Solar Farms | 60A |
Pakistan Cables | 470-580 | High Power | 68A |
10mm DC cables handle high-power installations from 8-15kW systems. They’re essential for commercial buildings, factories, and large homes with multiple air conditioners. These cables carry 60-70 amps and work for distances up to 100 meters.
Businesses choose 10mm cables to future-proof their solar investments. The extra capacity allows system expansion without rewiring.
Manufacturing facilities and cold storage units rely on 10mm cables for consistent power delivery. Any voltage drop in these applications means thousands in lost productivity.
16mm DC Cable Prices
Brand | Price per Meter (PKR) | Voltage Rating | Typical Use |
Fast Cables | 800-900 | 1000V | Solar Farms |
Long Age | 850-1000 | 1500V | Industrial |
MCI Cables | 820-950 | 1000V | Grid-Scale |
Royal Classic | 780-880 | 1000V | Commercial |
Pakistan Cables | 840-980 | 1500V | Utility Scale |
16mm DC cables serve large-scale installations over 20kW capacity. Solar farms, industrial complexes, and utility-scale projects use these cables for main power transmission. They handle 100+ amps and span distances over 200 meters without power loss.
These heavy-duty cables cost more but deliver maximum efficiency for high-power applications. A 1% efficiency gain on a 100kW system generates PKR 200,000 extra revenue annually.
2.2 Price Comparison by Cities
Regional pricing varies due to transportation costs, local demand, and distributor networks. Understanding these differences helps you plan purchases and budget effectively.
DC Cable Prices in Lahore
Lahore offers the most competitive DC cable prices in Pakistan. As a manufacturing hub, transportation costs remain low and competition keeps prices down.
Cable Size | Average Price (PKR/meter) | Price Range |
4mm | 195 | 180-220 |
6mm | 275 | 250-310 |
10mm | 485 | 450-530 |
16mm | 840 | 800-900 |
Local manufacturers like MCI Cables and Long Age maintain distribution centers here. Bulk buyers get 10-15% discounts on orders over 1000 meters.
Lahore’s electrical markets in Akbari Mandi and Shah Alami offer immediate availability. Most retailers provide same-day delivery within city limits.
DC Cable Prices in Karachi
Karachi prices run 5-8% higher than Lahore due to port logistics and higher real estate costs. However, the city offers more international brand options.
Cable Size | Average Price (PKR/meter) | Premium for Quality |
4mm | 205 | +15% for marine grade |
6mm | 290 | +20% for coastal rated |
10mm | 515 | +18% for humidity resistant |
16mm | 890 | +22% for industrial grade |
Coastal humidity demands higher-grade insulation. Standard PVC cables degrade faster, making XLPE insulation worth the 15-20% premium.
Karachi’s industrial demand drives availability of specialized cables. You’ll find options like armored cables and fire-resistant variants not available elsewhere.
DC Cable Prices in Islamabad
Islamabad sits between Lahore and Karachi for pricing. Government projects and embassy installations drive demand for premium cables.
Transportation from Lahore adds PKR 5-8 per meter to base prices. However, lower humidity means standard insulation performs well.
The twin cities (Islamabad-Rawalpindi) market focuses on quality over price. Customers typically choose established brands with longer warranties.
Regional Price Variations
Northern areas like Gilgit and Skardu see 20-30% higher prices due to transportation challenges. Remote locations add PKR 15-25 per meter for delivery.
Southern Sindh and Balochistan face similar premium pricing. Planning cable purchases during peak season (October-March) ensures better availability.
Border areas near Afghanistan sometimes offer cheaper cables, but quality and warranty support can be questionable.
Types of DC Cables Available
3.1 By Core Configuration
Choosing the right core configuration affects your system’s flexibility and installation ease. Each type serves specific applications and installation scenarios.
Single Core DC Cables
Single core DC cables use one conductor per cable, requiring separate positive and negative runs. They offer maximum flexibility for complex routing and easier replacement if damaged. Most residential installations use single core cables for cleaner appearance and simpler troubleshooting.
Single core design allows independent cable runs through different pathways. This flexibility helps avoid obstacles like structural beams or existing electrical conduits.
Maintenance becomes easier because you can replace one cable without touching the other. If animals damage the positive cable, you don’t need to replace both runs.
Professional installers prefer single core for rooftop installations. The lighter weight per cable reduces stress on mounting clips and makes handling safer.
2 Core DC Cables
2 core DC cables combine positive and negative conductors in one sheath, reducing installation time by 50% and ensuring matched cable characteristics. They cost 15-20% more than equivalent single core cables but save labor costs and provide neater installations.
The dual conductor design guarantees both positive and negative cables have identical resistance and capacitance. This matching improves system efficiency and reduces potential interference.
Installation speed increases dramatically with 2 core cables. One cable run replaces two separate runs, cutting labor time and reducing mounting hardware needs.
These cables work perfectly for long underground runs or areas where cable management matters. Solar carports and ground-mounted arrays benefit from the cleaner appearance.
Multi-Core DC Cables
Multi-core cables serve specialized applications like solar tracking systems or monitoring equipment. They combine power and signal cables in one protective sheath.
Industrial installations use multi-core for connecting multiple inverters or combiner boxes. The integrated design reduces electromagnetic interference between circuits.
Cost per meter runs higher, but total installation costs often decrease due to simplified cable management and reduced conduit requirements.
3.2 By Insulation Material
Insulation material determines cable performance, lifespan, and cost. Pakistan’s climate demands careful material selection for optimal durability.
PVC Insulated DC Cables
PVC insulated DC cables offer good performance at affordable prices, making them popular for budget-conscious installations. They handle temperatures up to 70°C and resist moisture well, suitable for most Pakistani climates except extreme heat zones.
PVC remains the most common insulation choice for residential solar systems. It provides adequate UV resistance for 15-20 year lifespans when properly rated.
Cost advantage makes PVC attractive for large installations. The material costs 30-40% less than premium alternatives while meeting basic performance requirements.
However, PVC becomes brittle in extreme cold and softens in high heat. Lahore’s summer temperatures near 50°C can stress PVC cables over time.
XLPE Insulated DC Cables
XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) insulated cables withstand temperatures up to 90°C and last 25-30 years in Pakistani conditions. They cost 25-35% more than PVC but provide superior performance in high-temperature environments and aggressive UV exposure.
XLPE maintains flexibility across wider temperature ranges. From winter lows near freezing to summer highs over 45°C, these cables perform consistently.
Chemical resistance surpasses PVC significantly. Industrial environments with chemical exposure or coastal areas with salt air benefit from XLPE’s durability.
The material’s molecular structure resists UV degradation better than PVC. This advantage extends cable life in rooftop installations with direct sun exposure.
For systems designed to last 25+ years, XLPE insulation provides better long-term value despite higher upfront costs. The improved reliability reduces maintenance and replacement expenses.
EVA Insulated DC Cables
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) insulation represents premium cable technology. It offers exceptional flexibility and temperature performance from -40°C to +125°C.
These cables cost 40-50% more than PVC alternatives but provide maximum durability. Solar farms and critical installations justify the premium for reduced failure risk.
EVA maintains flexibility even after years of thermal cycling. This characteristic prevents cracking and maintains electrical integrity longer than other materials.
3.3 By Special Features
Special feature cables address specific installation challenges or performance requirements. Understanding these options helps optimize system design.
UV Resistant Cables
UV resistant cables use specially formulated insulation compounds and additives to prevent degradation from Pakistan’s intense sunlight. They last 2-3 times longer than standard cables in direct sun exposure, making the 10-15% price premium worthwhile for rooftop installations.
Pakistan’s high altitude areas like Murree and northern regions experience intense UV due to thin atmosphere. Standard cables can fail within 8-10 years without proper UV protection.
UV resistance testing involves exposing cables to artificial sunlight equivalent to 20+ years of outdoor exposure. Quality cables show minimal color change or flexibility loss.
Black insulation typically provides better UV resistance than colored alternatives. The carbon black additive absorbs and dissipates UV energy before it can damage the polymer structure.
Halogen Free Cables
Halogen free cables prevent toxic gas emission during fires. They cost 20-30% more but provide critical safety benefits in enclosed spaces or buildings.
These cables meet international fire safety standards required for commercial installations. Insurance companies sometimes offer premium discounts for halogen-free cable usage.
The materials used resist flame spread and self-extinguish when the heat source is removed. This characteristic prevents electrical fires from spreading along cable runs.
Tin Coated Copper Cables
Tin coated copper cables resist corrosion in humid coastal areas and industrial environments. The tin plating prevents copper oxidation that can increase resistance and create hot spots. They cost 15-20% more than bare copper but last significantly longer in aggressive environments.
Coastal installations benefit most from tin coating. Salt air rapidly corrodes bare copper, creating connection problems and power losses.
Industrial areas with chemical vapors or pollution also stress copper conductors. Tin coating provides a barrier against these corrosive elements.
The plating process adds minimal resistance while providing maximum protection. Properly applied tin coating maintains conductivity while extending cable life by 5-10 years.
DC Cable Specifications & Standards
4.1 International Standards
Understanding standards helps ensure you buy cables that meet safety and performance requirements. International standards provide quality benchmarks for Pakistani market.
BS6500 Standard Compliance
BS6500 standard defines requirements for flexible cables rated up to 3000V for photovoltaic systems. Cables meeting this standard ensure compatibility with international solar equipment and provide verified performance characteristics. Look for BS6500 marking on cable sheathing to confirm compliance.
This British standard specifically addresses solar cable requirements including UV resistance, temperature cycling, and mechanical stress. It’s widely recognized in Pakistan’s solar industry.
BS6500 cables undergo rigorous testing for flame resistance, cold bend performance, and ozone resistance. These tests simulate real-world installation conditions.
Quality manufacturers provide test certificates showing BS6500 compliance. Always request documentation to verify authentic standard compliance rather than just markings.
TUV Certification
TUV certification represents Germany’s technical inspection association approval. TUV-certified cables meet European Union safety and performance standards.
The certification process involves third-party testing and factory inspections. This oversight ensures consistent quality control throughout production.
TUV-certified cables cost 10-15% more but provide confidence in quality and international compatibility. European inverter manufacturers often require TUV-certified cables for warranty coverage.
ISO Standards
ISO 9001 certification indicates quality management systems compliance. Cable manufacturers with ISO certification maintain consistent production quality.
vigilance during DC cable installation. DC current doesn’t zero-cross like AC, making it harder to interrupt and more dangerous.
Always disconnect power sources before working on cables. Use lockout/tagout procedures and test circuits with appropriate meters. Wear safety equipment including insulated gloves, safety glasses, and non-conductive footwear. Work with qualified personnel and follow local electrical codes.
DC arcs burn hotter and last longer than AC arcs. Never work on live DC circuits above 50V without proper training and equipment.
Ground fault protection becomes critical in wet conditions. Install GFCI protection and test regularly to prevent shock hazards.
Personal protective equipment saves lives and prevents injuries. Quality safety gear costs far less than medical treatment or system damage.
4.2 Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance prevents failures and extends cable life. Pakistani climate conditions require more frequent inspections than temperate regions.
Regular Inspection
Inspect DC cables every 6 months for UV damage, mechanical wear, and connection integrity. Look for discoloration, cracking, or brittleness in insulation. Check connections for corrosion, looseness, or overheating signs. Document findings and address issues before they cause failures.
Visual inspection reveals most problems before they cause system failures. Train facility staff to recognize warning signs during routine maintenance.
Thermal imaging detects hot connections and high-resistance joints. Annual thermal scans identify problems invisible to visual inspection.
Electrical testing measures insulation resistance and continuity. These tests detect deterioration before it affects system performance.
Damage Prevention
Prevention costs less than replacement and prevents system downtime. Pakistani environmental conditions accelerate cable aging without proper protection.
Animal protection prevents costly damage from rodents, birds, and larger animals. Install guards around ground-level cables and equipment.
Physical barriers protect against lawn equipment, vehicles, and construction activity. Mark underground cables clearly and maintain protective barriers.
UV protection extends cable life in high-altitude and desert regions. Consider conduit or cable covers for extreme exposure conditions.
Weather protection shields connections from rain, snow, and humidity. Proper enclosures prevent moisture-related failures.
Lifespan Optimization
Quality installation and regular maintenance extend DC cable life to 25-30 years in Pakistani conditions. Avoid exceeding temperature ratings, maintain proper support, and protect from environmental stresses. Replace cables showing significant degradation before they affect system performance or safety.
Load management prevents overheating during peak demand periods. Size cables conservatively and monitor loading during commissioning.
Environmental monitoring tracks conditions that affect cable aging. Temperature logging helps predict maintenance needs.
Preventive replacement based on age and condition prevents unexpected failures. Budget for cable replacement in long-term maintenance planning.
Record keeping tracks cable performance and maintenance history. This documentation helps optimize replacement schedules and warranty claims.
Buying Guide & Where to Purchase
5.1 Online Platforms
Online purchasing offers convenience and competitive pricing for DC cables. However, verify seller credentials and product authenticity before ordering.
Daraz Pakistan
Daraz Pakistan offers the largest selection of DC cables from multiple manufacturers with competitive pricing and buyer protection. Look for verified sellers with high ratings and authentic product certifications. Take advantage of seasonal sales for bulk purchases while ensuring warranty support remains available.
Daraz provides buyer protection policies that cover defective products and shipping damage. Their return policies give confidence when ordering expensive cables.
Customer reviews help identify quality sellers and problematic products. Read recent reviews carefully and look for detailed feedback about actual performance.
Bulk ordering often qualifies for wholesale pricing. Contact sellers directly for quotes on large quantities beyond standard listings.
Seasonal sales during Ramadan, Eid, and winter months offer significant discounts. Plan cable purchases around these periods for maximum savings.
Local E-commerce Sites
Pakistani e-commerce platforms like PakWheels, OLX, and local websites offer regional suppliers and competitive pricing. Verify seller legitimacy before making large purchases.
Local sellers understand Pakistani market requirements and provide better after-sales support than international suppliers.
Payment options include cash on delivery, which provides security for large purchases. Inspect cables before payment to ensure quality and authenticity.
Regional warehouses enable faster delivery than international shipping. Most platforms deliver within 2-3 days for major cities.
Manufacturer Websites
Direct purchasing from manufacturers offers best pricing for large orders and guarantees authentic products with full warranty support.
explore our complete solar cable selection → Long Age Cables website see detailed specifications and technical support → Fast Cables website compare different cable types and applications → MCI Cables website
Manufacturer websites provide technical specifications, installation guides, and professional support. This information helps ensure proper cable selection and installation.
Bulk pricing applies to orders over specific quantities. Contact manufacturers directly for quotes on large commercial or industrial projects.
5.2 Physical Stores
Physical inspection allows quality verification before purchase. Pakistani electrical markets offer immediate availability and negotiable pricing.
Electrical Markets
Major electrical markets in Lahore (Akbari Mandi), Karachi (Shershah), and Islamabad (Aabpara) stock comprehensive cable selections from all major manufacturers.
find the best local pricing and immediate availability → visit electrical markets negotiate bulk discounts and compare quality firsthand → electrical wholesale markets access technical expertise from experienced dealers → specialized solar equipment suppliers
Market vendors provide installation services and technical support. Their experience helps select appropriate cables for specific applications.
Immediate availability eliminates shipping delays for urgent projects. Most markets stock common sizes and can order specialty cables quickly.
Negotiation opportunities exist for bulk purchases or repeat customers. Building relationships with reliable suppliers provides better pricing and service.
Solar Equipment Dealers
Specialized solar dealers understand system requirements and stock appropriate cable types. Their expertise helps avoid compatibility problems and performance issues.
Solar dealers often provide system design services that include proper cable selection. This integrated approach ensures optimal performance and warranty compliance.
Installation services from solar dealers include cable installation and system commissioning. Professional installation protects warranty coverage and ensures safety.
Technical support continues after purchase through solar dealers. They understand both cables and systems, providing comprehensive problem-solving assistance.
Authorized Distributors
Manufacturer-authorized distributors guarantee authentic products with full warranty support. They provide technical training and application assistance.
Authorized distributors maintain factory training and current product knowledge. Their expertise helps optimize cable selection for specific applications.
Warranty processing through authorized distributors provides faster resolution and replacement products. Direct manufacturer relationships streamline support processes.
Training programs from authorized distributors help customers understand proper installation and maintenance practices. This knowledge prevents problems and extends cable life.