Glossary of terms for electric solar container technology

What is a solar energy glossary?

Our solar energy glossary offers a collection of key terms and phrases, explained simply and concisely. A type of electrical current that circuits and appliances in most homes utilize. Expressed as a sine wave, the current of AC passes through zero when it changes direction, which makes it a safer electrical current.

What is a photovoltaic system?

Photovoltaics (PV): Devices that convert solar energy into electricity using semiconductors (this conversion is called the photovoltaic effect). Solar panels are photovoltaics and make up a PV system. Power output/rating: The number of watts a solar panel produces in ideal conditions.

What does oversizing a solar energy system mean?

Oversizing a solar energy system means that solar production has a higher peak capacity than the inverter rating. Simply put, oversizing is a cost-effective way to maximize a solar energy system’s production by increasing the total capacity of the solar panels so that it is higher than the capacity of the inverter.

What is a solar collector?

Collector Often used in reference to solar thermal, collectors absorb solar radiation and transfer the heat into a medium like water or solar fluid for use. Shingle Solar modules designed to look like and blend in with traditional roof shingles. They are also referred to as solar tiles or slates.

How does residential solar work?

The majority of residential solar is grid tied, meaning that we use the utility infrastructure to measure production of energy produced by the solar system. When we use more energy than is produced by the solar system, the energy from the utility grid will keep the lights on in our home.

What is a kW solar system?

kW is a unit of power. 1kW is equivalent to 1000W of power. Solar systems are measured in kW. A way of calculating the cost of generating a unit of electricity from a specific energy production system.