Glossary of solar terminology - learn 'Solar' speak
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Solar technology is terribly interesting but can be daunting, so we've put together a glossary of terminology that will help you understand what we're talking about.
Alternating Current (AC)
There are two types of current - AC and DC (direct current). AC is exactly how it sounds - the current alternates direction regularly. This makes it suitable for appliances and lighting.
Amorphous Thin Film
This is a type of photovoltaic film used in solar panels - cheapest but least efficient.
Closed loop system
A specially treated liquid is pumped through the solar collectors and heats the water held separately in the hot water tank.
Direct Current (DC)
An electrical current that flows in one direction only.
Evacuated tube collectors
Collectors for Solar Hot Water systems, made of collector tubes with a second inner tube with space between each tube that is evacuated and a vacuum. Solar energy goes through the vacuum and is collected by the inner tube that's treated with a special coating. More...
Feed-in Tariffs
If you have solar panels and are connected to the state's electricity grid, you'll be paid actual money for electricity that you generate or put back into the grid for other people to use. How much you are paid is governed by your state's feed-in tariff.
Flat plate collectors
Flat plate collectors consist of a metal collector plate (often copper) coated in specialised materials and placed securely into an insulated box. More...
Grid Connect
Your solar system is connected to the mains supply - instead of being a standalone system where your home is completely independent.
Monocrystalline
This is a type of photovoltaic film used in solar panels - most expensive and most efficient.
Off-Grid
Your solar power system is independent of the mains electrical supply and power is stored in batteries.
Open loop system
Water is circulated through the collectors and back into the tank, unlike a closed loop system where a specific liquid is pumped through collectors and then transfers heat into the water in the tank. More...
Polycrystalline
This is a type of photovoltaic film used in solar panels - medium cost and efficient.
PV or Photovoltaics
The method of converting solar power into electrical current.
Renewable Energy Credit Scheme (RECs)
A trading scheme to offset the cost of investing in 'green' solutions by giving you certificates that can be traded for cash or held as an investment like shares. More...
Inverter
This is a device that is used to convert direct current into alternate current that can be used in off grid systems or those that feed back into the electricity grid. More...
Solar Site Analysis
A professional will visit your home and advise you on your solar power needs.
Volt
The voltage between two points is the electrical force that drives an electric current between the two points.
Watt
A unit of power - the more watts, the more power.
Other resources
Everything you need to know about Solar
Everything you need to know about Solar Hot Water
Solar Energy Quotes
from local businesses
