Glossary of Terms

The smallest part of a solar panel that converts light into solar electricity.

A type of low voltage electrical current. DC electricity is produced by solar cells and must be converted into AC before it’s usable in a house.  This conversion is done by an inverter.

One billion watts.

A system of high tension cables in a region that distributes electricity to homes, businesses, and other buildings.

A solar system that is connected to the power grid and uses the grid as a backup source of power.

A solar electrical system that is mounted on the ground instead of on a roof.

The process of hooking up a solar electrical system to the power grid.

The electrical device that converts direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity.

A packaged, interconnected assembly of solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells. The solar panel can be used as a component of a larger photovoltaic system to generate and supply electricity in commercial and residential applications. Because a single solar … Continue reading →