- Battery Storage
Battery storage refers to the use of rechargeable batteries to store excess electricity generated by solar panels. The stored energy can be used during periods when the solar panels are not producing electricity, such as at night or during cloudy days. - BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics)
BIPV refers to the integration of solar panels into building materials, such as roofs, windows, or facades, to generate electricity while serving a dual purpose. - Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency refers to the practice of using less energy to perform the same tasks or achieve the same level of comfort. In the context of solar energy, it involves using energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and building design to reduce overall energy consumption. - Grid-Tied System
A solar energy system that is connected to the main electrical grid. Excess electricity generated by the system can be fed back into the grid, and electricity is drawn from the grid when solar production is insufficient. - Inverter
An inverter is a device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used in most household appliances and the grid. - kWh (Kilowatt-Hour)
Kilowatt-hour is a unit of energy measurement representing the amount of energy consumed or generated at a rate of one kilowatt over the course of one hour. It's commonly used to measure electricity consumption or production. - Net Metering
Net metering is a billing arrangement where excess electricity generated by a solar panel system is fed back into the grid, and the owner is credited for the surplus energy. This credit can then be used when the solar panels are not producing enough power. - Permitting
Permitting involves obtaining the necessary approvals and permissions from local authorities and regulatory bodies before installing a solar energy system. This process ensures that the system complies with safety, zoning, and environmental regulations. - Photovoltaic (PV) Cell
A PV cell is the basic building block of a solar panel. It is a semiconductor device that directly converts sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. - Photovoltaic Effect
The process by which PV cells convert sunlight into electricity. When sunlight hits the PV cell, it releases electrons from the semiconductor material, generating an electric current. - Solar Array
A collection of interconnected solar panels that work together to generate a larger amount of electricity. Arrays can range in size from small residential setups to large-scale solar farms. - Solar Carport
A structure that incorporates solar panels to provide shade for vehicles while also generating electricity. - Solar Concentrator
A device that focuses a large area of sunlight onto a small area, intensifying the sunlight and increasing its potential to generate electricity. - Solar Degradation
The gradual reduction in the efficiency of solar panels over time due to environmental factors, such as exposure to sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and weather conditions. - Solar Efficiency
The efficiency of a solar panel refers to how effectively it converts sunlight into electricity. Higher efficiency panels generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. - Solar Energy
Solar energy refers to the radiant light and heat emitted by the sun, which is harnessed and converted into usable forms of energy for various applications. - Solar Farm
A large-scale installation of solar panels used to generate electricity for commercial purposes or feeding into the electrical grid. - Solar Incentives
Financial incentives, tax credits, grants, or subsidies provided by governments or utilities to encourage the adoption of solar energy systems. - Solar Insolation
Solar insolation is the amount of solar radiation energy received per unit area over a specific period. It is usually measured in kilowatt-hours per square meter per day (kWh/m²/day). - Solar Panel
A solar panel, also known as a photovoltaic (PV) panel, is a device that converts sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells. - Solar Thermal System
A system that uses sunlight to directly heat a fluid, which is then used for space heating, water heating, or electricity generation through a turbine. - Solar Tracking System
A mechanism that adjusts the orientation of solar panels throughout the day to maximize their exposure to sunlight, increasing energy production. - Thin-Film Solar Cells
Solar cells made from thin layers of semiconductor material deposited on a substrate. They are flexible and can be used in various applications, but generally have lower efficiency compared to traditional crystalline silicon cells.
Before deciding on a specific form of financial support, it's essential to research the options available in your area, consider your financial situation, and evaluate the long-term benefits of solar panel installation. Additionally, it's a good idea to consult with a solar installer or financial advisor to determine the most suitable financing method for your needs.
