Understanding the basic terms in solar power energy is critically important before purchasing a solar power system due to several reasons:
- Informed Decision-Making: Comprehending the key terminology can guide you in making a more informed decision about which type and size of solar power system is best for your specific needs. For instance, terms like “photovoltaic” (PV), “solar panels”, “inverter”, “kilowatt-hour” (kWh), “net metering”, “battery storage”, and “solar irradiance” are essential in understanding the functioning, efficiency, and expected power generation of a solar system.
- Economic Considerations: Understanding these terms will also help you decipher the financial aspects of your investment, such as calculating potential savings, return on investment (ROI), payback period, as well as understanding incentive programs like feed-in tariffs or tax credits.
- Installation and Maintenance: Knowing solar power terminology can aid in communicating effectively with installers and technicians, ensuring you understand what work will be done and how to maintain your system post-installation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Solar power installation often involves regulatory compliance, including permits and inspections. Understanding solar terminology can help you navigate this process more smoothly.
- Understanding Contracts: Solar power systems may come with contracts for installation, maintenance, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). A solid grasp of solar energy terms can help you understand and negotiate these contracts to your benefit.
- Troubleshooting: Lastly, if any issues arise with your solar power system, understanding the terminology can help you troubleshoot problems more effectively, or communicate more accurately with professionals who can assist.
Basic Terms
Solar Panels (or Photovoltaic Panels)
These are the primary components of a solar power system that absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. They are typically made up of several individual solar cells.
These are the smallest basic unit in a solar panel. They are usually made from silicon and work by converting sunlight directly into electricity.
Direct Current (DC)
This is a type of electrical current that flows in one direction. Solar panels produce DC electricity when they absorb sunlight.
Alternating Current (AC)
This is a type of electrical current where the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction. This is the type of electricity used by most homes and electrical appliances, hence the need for inverters in a solar power system.
Inverter
An electrical device that converts DC electricity produced by solar panels into AC electricity for use in the home or to be fed back into the electric grid.
Microinverters
These are a type of inverter that are installed at each individual solar panel, converting the DC electricity produced by that panel into AC. This is different from a traditional “string” or central inverter which converts the total DC power from all panels.
String Inverter (or Central Inverter)
This is a type of inverter that is connected to multiple solar panels in a series (or string). It converts the combined DC power generated by all these panels into AC power.
Grid-Tied System
A solar power system that is connected to the local electric utility grid. Excess power generated by the system can be fed back into the grid, and power can be drawn from the grid when the system isn’t producing enough electricity.
Off-Grid System
A solar power system that operates independently of the local utility grid. These systems usually have battery storage to store excess power for use when the system isn’t generating electricity.
These are used in solar power systems to store excess electricity for use when the system isn’t producing enough power, such as during the night or on cloudy days.
Net Metering
A billing arrangement where the solar system owner gets credit for the excess electricity that their system sends back to the grid. This can be used to offset the cost of electricity drawn from the grid when the solar system isn’t producing enough power.
Solar Charge Controller
A device in solar power systems that regulates the voltage and current coming from the solar panels. It is used to charge batteries, preventing overcharging and improving their lifespan.
Mounting System
The structure used to secure solar panels in place, either on a roof or on the ground.
These are some of the most common terms you’ll come across when dealing with solar power systems. Understanding these will help you better comprehend how such systems work and can be managed.
SeeMore Solar is locally owned and operated solar power system provider in Cape Coral, Florida for almost 50 years. Please message online or call us at 239-243-9191 to talk with our experts.
