The Big Solar Energy Glossary defines and simplifies some of the top solar words, industry acronyms and green energy terms to help you more easily navigate the sector and make more informed decisions. All terms and acronyms are defined in the context of solar energy.
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.
In most photovoltaic applications the radiation is sunlight and for this reason the devices making use of the photovoltaic effect to convert solar energy into electrical energy are known as solar cells. Solar Cell - A solar cell is a device that converts the energy of sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
Solar Cell - A solar cell is a device that converts the energy of sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. Assemblies of cells are used to make solar panels. Solar Panel - A packaged, interconnected assembly of solar cells also known as a solar module.
In physics, “photovoltaic” refers to anything that produces electricity when exposed to light or other radiant energy. Solar cells, solar modules, and solar panels are often referred to as PV cells, PV modules, and PV panels to express how their electricity is produced.
Assemblies of cells are used to make solar panels. Solar Panel - A packaged, interconnected assembly of solar cells also known as a solar module. It is used as a component in a larger photovoltaic (PV) system to offer electricity for commercial and residential applications.