Glossary

A DC solar system where the battery bank and major components are designed to operate at a nominal voltage of 24 Volts.

A DC solar system where the battery bank and major components are designed to operate at a nominal voltage of 48 Volts.

A type of sealed lead-acid battery where the electrolyte is held in fiberglass mats, allowing it to be spill-proof and maintenance-free.

Connecting an AC-output solar inverter to a battery-based system via a battery-based inverter or hybrid inverter, allowing both to operate on the AC side.

A battery management system component that transfers charge from higher-voltage cells to lower-voltage cells, increasing battery efficiency and longevity.

The use of fans, pumps, or other mechanical means to dissipate heat from components like inverters or batteries, improving performance and lifespan.

A mounting system that allows the user to change the tilt angle of the solar panels to optimize sun exposure for different seasons.

Materials or components meeting the high-quality and reliability standards required for use in aircraft or space applications.

A physical separation of conductors or components through air, which acts as an electrical insulator to prevent short circuits.

A measure of the reflectivity of a surface; in solar, it refers to the amount of sunlight reflected from the ground or roof back onto the solar panel.

A single unit that combines an inverter, a solar charge controller (MPPT/PWM), and a battery charger, simplifying the system setup.

Electric current that periodically reverses direction, which is the standard form of power used in homes and the electrical grid.

A device in a vehicle or engine that generates Alternating Current (AC) and typically rectifies it to DC to charge the vehicle's battery.

The temperature of the environment or air surrounding a solar panel, wire, or other component.

A standard system used to measure the diameter of electrical conductors, where a lower AWG number indicates a thicker wire.

A thin-film PV technology where silicon is deposited as a thin, non-crystalline layer, often used in low-power applications like calculators.

A unit of electric charge, indicating the amount of current a battery can supply for one hour.

The unit of electric current, which measures the rate of electrical charge flow in a circuit.

The positive electrode in a battery or the terminal where conventional current flows into a device.

A safety feature that automatically shuts down a grid-tied inverter when the utility grid power is lost, preventing electricity from flowing onto a dead grid.

A thin film applied to the surface of a solar panel to minimize light reflection and maximize the amount of sunlight absorbed by the cells.

Security measures or designs implemented to prevent the theft of solar panels, inverters, or other valuable equipment.

The total power flowing in an AC circuit, measured in Volt-Amperes (VA), which is the vector sum of real power and reactive power.

A dangerous electrical discharge resulting from a damaged conductor or connection, which can cause heat and fire.

A complete system of interconnected photovoltaic (PV) modules or solar panels.

A switch or breaker used to manually or automatically disconnect the solar panel array from the rest of the system for safety or maintenance.

The specific area, typically on the ground or a large roof, where the solar array (panels) is physically located and generating power.

A self-acting switch that moves electrical loads between two power sources, typically the grid and a backup power source (like batteries or a generator).

The horizontal angle or compass direction in which a solar panel faces, measured clockwise from true north.

All components of a solar PV system other than the solar panels themselves, including inverters, wires, batteries, and mounting hardware.

The minimum level of electrical power that a home or facility requires at all times, often dominated by loads like the refrigerator and modem.

A group of batteries wired together, either in series or parallel, to achieve the desired voltage and capacity.

A standalone device used to restore energy to a secondary (rechargeable) battery by passing an electric current through it.

A combined unit that acts as a battery charger (AC to DC) and an inverter (DC to AC), common in hybrid systems.

The specific chemical composition used inside a battery to store and release energy (e.g., Lead-Acid, Lithium Iron Phosphate).

An electronic system that monitors and controls the charging and discharging of battery cells to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity.

A device that accurately measures and displays key battery parameters such as State of Charge, voltage, and current flow.

An inverter capable of converting power in both directions: DC to AC and AC to DC.

A total loss of electrical power in a given area, often resulting from grid-related issues or natural events.

A diode placed in a solar array string to prevent current from flowing backward from the battery or other strings into a shaded panel at night.

A diode placed in a solar array string to prevent current from flowing backward from the battery or other strings into a shaded panel at night.

The practice of connecting metal parts of a solar system (racking, panel frames, enclosures) to create a single, continuous, conductive path for safety.

A DC-to-DC converter that steps up (increases) the input voltage from one level to a higher output level.

The process of using a circuit (like a charge controller) to increase the DC voltage to a higher, more usable level for battery charging or other applications.

The point in time when the cumulative energy savings from a solar system equal the initial cost of the system; the end of the payback period.

A metal box that holds all the circuit breakers in a home, acting as the distribution point for electrical power.

A traditional unit of heat; the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

The first and most aggressive stage of battery charging, where the charge controller supplies maximum current until the voltage reaches a set level.

A metallic strip or bar (usually copper or aluminum) used to conduct a large amount of electricity within a distribution board or battery bank.

A metallic strip or bar (usually copper or aluminum) used to conduct a large amount of electricity within a distribution board or battery bank.

The process of using bus bars to connect multiple wires or components together efficiently.

A diode wired in parallel across a group of PV cells to provide an alternative path for current when those cells are shaded or malfunctioning.

A measure of the rate at which a battery is discharged or charged relative to its maximum capacity.

A device designed to attach and secure the end of a cable to a piece of electrical equipment, often providing strain relief and environmental sealing.

A passive electronic component that stores energy in an electric field, often used to smooth voltage spikes and filter noise.

The maximum amount of energy (usually measured in Watt-hours or Amp-hours) that a battery or system can store or deliver.

The negative electrode in a battery or the terminal where conventional current flows out of a device.

A technique used to control corrosion of a metal surface by making it the cathode of an electrochemical cell.

The basic, functional unit of a solar panel (PV cell) or a battery (battery cell), which generates or stores electricity.

A component that regulates the voltage and current coming from the solar array to the battery bank, preventing overcharging.

The percentage of electrical energy put into a battery that is converted into chemical energy and stored for later use.

A complete, closed path through which electric current can flow, from the source, through the load, and back to the source.

An automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current, typically resulting from an overload or short circuit.

The voltage at which a Surge Protection Device (SPD) begins to divert a voltage surge away from the protected equipment.

Electrical power with a stable voltage, frequency, and pure sine wave form, free from surges and electrical noise.

Low temperatures that increase the maximum open-circuit voltage (Voc) of a solar panel, requiring installers to calculate for this extreme.

The final stage of installation where the solar system is tested, started up, and officially handed over to the owner, ensuring it operates correctly.

Any material that allows electric current to flow easily, such as copper or aluminum wire.

A tube or pipe used to protect and route electrical wiring, required by safety codes for exposed wiring.

A curved section of conduit used to change the direction of electrical wiring while maintaining protection and preventing damage to the wires.

A general term for an enclosure used to house electrical connections or terminations, protecting them from the environment.

A standard, weatherproof connector commonly used to link solar panels together in an array.

A device used to regulate or manage a specific function in a system, such as a solar charge controller or a remote controller.

An electrical device that converts DC power from one voltage level to another, or from AC to DC (rectifier).

The destruction of metal by chemical reaction with its environment, often caused by salt, humidity, or gasses from batteries.

The essential appliances or devices (e.g., lights, refrigerator, internet modem) that must remain powered during a grid outage.

The flow of electrical charge, measured in Amperes (A).

The voltage level at which a charge controller or BMS disconnects the load to prevent a battery from being dangerously over-discharged.

The total number of full discharge and recharge cycles a battery can reliably perform before its performance significantly degrades.

In the context of batteries, one full discharge and recharge process; the number of cycles a battery can endure defines its lifespan.

Connecting the solar array to a battery-based system using a charge controller, where all power is managed on the DC side before the main inverter.

A manually operated switch used to safely break the DC circuit between the solar array and the rest of the system.

A type of battery designed to be regularly and substantially discharged before being recharged, ideal for solar energy storage.

The practice of excessively draining a battery's stored energy beyond the manufacturer's recommended Depth of Discharge (DOD).

The permanent loss of performance or capacity of a solar panel or battery over time and use.

A fee sometimes applied by the utility company based on the customer's highest peak power usage during a billing period.

The percentage of the battery's capacity that has been discharged, where a lower DOD (i.e., a higher state of charge) generally prolongs battery life.

The reduction of a component's capacity rating (e.g., current or power) to ensure safe and reliable operation under extreme conditions, like high temperatures.

An electronic component that allows current to flow easily in only one direction, blocking it in the reverse direction.

An arrangement of four diodes used to convert Alternating Current (AC) into Direct Current (DC).

Wiring a solar array or single panel directly to a charge controller or other component without using extra junction boxes.

Electric current that flows only in one direction, which is the type of power generated by solar panels and stored in batteries.

The speed at which a battery is drained of its energy, often expressed as a C-rate (e.g., C/10 means full discharge in 10 hours).

A switch or breaker used to manually open a circuit and electrically isolate a component for safety and maintenance.

The process of sending electrical power from the source (inverter/battery) to all the different loads (appliances) in a home.

A general term for the main electrical panel (breaker panel) in a home where circuits are distributed and protected.

An enclosure containing the main electrical distribution components, such as circuit breakers and fuses, for a power system.

A system of tubes or conduits used to route and protect electrical wiring, especially for solar installations.

The ratio of 'on' time to total time for a device, such as the PWM charge controller's switching frequency.

A connection from the electrical system to the earth, typically through a ground rod, providing a path for dangerous fault currents.

Another term for grounding, the process of connecting the electrical system to the earth for safety.

The ratio of useful energy output to the total energy input, often expressed as a percentage.

A force field created by electric charges, which is how energy is stored in a capacitor.

A set of official rules and standards for the safe design and installation of electrical wiring and equipment.

A technical drawing that uses simple, standardized symbols to represent all the components and connections of an electrical system.

A type of pressure-sensitive tape used to insulate electrical wires and other materials that conduct electricity.

Relating to the chemical reactions that produce or are caused by electricity, which is the process inside a battery.

A substance, typically a liquid like sulfuric acid in lead-acid batteries, that conducts electricity through the movement of ions.

A disturbance that affects an electrical circuit due to electromagnetic induction or radiation, often referred to as 'noise.'

The electrical potential produced by an energy source, such as a battery or solar panel, measured in Volts.

A box or casing used to protect electrical components (like batteries or inverters) from physical damage and environmental factors.

The capacity to do work, measured in units like Watt-hours (Wh) or Kilowatt-hours (kWh).

A detailed assessment of a building's energy consumption, helping to identify where energy is being used and how to conserve it.

The amount of energy that can be stored per unit of mass or volume of a battery.

A controlled, intentional overcharging of flooded lead-acid batteries to help balance the cells and remove sulfate buildup from the plates.

The wire (typically green or bare copper) used to connect non-current-carrying metal parts to the system's ground for safety.

Hardware components such as bolts, nuts, and clamps used to secure solar panels and racking to the roof structure.

Any failure in an electrical system, such as a short circuit or ground fault, that causes a deviation from normal operation.

An abnormally high current flow caused by a fault in the system, such as a short circuit or ground fault.

A passive electronic component that suppresses high-frequency electronic noise (EMI/RFI) in electronic circuits by turning it into heat.

Electrical wire that is installed outside and exposed to the elements between the solar array and the inverter or charge controller.

An electronic circuit designed to remove unwanted frequencies or noise from an electrical signal.

A procedure where a solar panel is briefly exposed to a high-intensity light source to accurately measure its power output (Wattage) under standard conditions.

The final stage of battery charging where a low, consistent voltage is applied to the battery to maintain a full state of charge without causing damage.

A traditional, low-cost battery type that uses a liquid electrolyte solution and requires periodic maintenance (adding distilled water).

The rate at which Alternating Current (AC) reverses direction, measured in Hertz (Hz). The standard in the Philippines is 60 Hz.

A safety device containing a component that melts and breaks the circuit when the current exceeds a set level.

The act of installing a fuse in a circuit to provide overcurrent protection for wires and components.

The release of hydrogen and oxygen gases when a lead-acid battery is charging, which requires proper ventilation.

A machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, often used as a backup power source during blackouts.

A very large unit of power equal to one billion Watts, typically used to measure the capacity of a power plant or a country's total solar capacity.

The network of transmission lines, substations, and power plants that deliver electricity from power generators to consumers.

A solar system connected to the public utility grid, which can draw power from the grid when solar production is low and feed excess power back.

A ring placed in a hole through an electrical enclosure to protect the cable insulation from sharp edges.

A type of electrical fault where a live wire accidentally makes contact with the equipment's metal case or the earth ground.

A fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground fault, preventing electrocution.

A conductor driven into the earth and connected to the electrical system to provide a path for fault currents, protecting equipment and people.

The intentional connection of a circuit or equipment to the earth, creating a safe path for stray electrical current.

A passive component that absorbs and dissipates heat from electronic devices (like inverters and charge controllers) to the surrounding air.

A safety switch used to isolate a high-voltage part of a system, such as a long string of solar panels, during maintenance.

A unit of power, commonly used to rate the output of motors and engines, with one HP approximately equal to 746 Watts.

The unsafe practice of connecting or disconnecting a wire or connector while the circuit is still energized (live).

A localized area of high temperature on a solar panel, often caused by cell damage, shading, or poor connections, which can lead to panel failure.

The amount of water vapor present in the air, which can affect the lifespan and corrosion rate of electrical components.

An inverter that can manage power from solar panels, a battery bank, and the electrical grid simultaneously.

A solar power system that utilizes both solar panels and a backup power source, such as the utility grid or a generator, with battery storage.

The current (Amps) at which a solar panel produces the maximum amount of power under standard test conditions.

The angle or slope of a roof, which influences the natural tilt angle of roof-mounted solar panels.

An electrical load (like a motor or a compressor) that creates a magnetic field and can cause large current surges when starting or stopping.

A passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current passes through it, often used in inverters and noise filtering.

The total solar energy received on a given surface area over a given period, often used interchangeably with solar irradiation.

A power semiconductor device commonly used as a fast, efficient switch in high-power inverters.

A material used to cover wires and prevent the flow of electricity to unwanted areas, protecting against short circuits and shock.

A material (like plastic, rubber, or glass) that resists the flow of electric current, used to protect conductors.

A solar power system where all major components (panels, inverter, battery) are sourced and designed to work together seamlessly by one manufacturer.

The connection between a customer's solar system and the utility grid, requiring formal approval and safety checks.

A formal contract between a solar system owner and the utility company governing the safe operation and power flow between the two systems.

A device that converts Direct Current (DC) electricity from solar panels or batteries into Alternating Current (AC) for household use.

The loss of power when the solar array produces more DC power than the inverter's maximum input or AC output capacity can handle.

The power of sunlight hitting a surface per unit area, typically measured in Watts per square meter (W/m²).

The maximum current a solar panel generates when its positive and negative leads are connected directly together (short-circuited).

A transformer used to electrically separate two circuits, providing safety and helping to block noise or ground faults.

An enclosed container for electrical connections, protecting the wire splices from weather and physical damage.

The standard international unit of electrical energy or work done.

A unit of apparent power equal to one thousand Volt-Amperes (VA), often used to rate the capacity of large inverters.

A unit of electrical power equal to one thousand watts, often used to rate the output capacity of solar panels or inverters.

The standard unit of electrical energy used by utility companies for billing, representing the use of one kilowatt of power for one hour.

The practice of packaging all the necessary components (panels, inverter, wire, mounting) for a specific solar setup into one complete package.

A rechargeable battery type commonly used for solar storage due to its low cost, using lead plates and sulfuric acid electrolyte.

The total number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can perform before its capacity drops below a specified percentage (typically 80% of its original capacity).

Electrical energy that is converted to heat and wasted while flowing through wires, also known as voltage drop.

A type of lithium-ion battery known for its high safety, long cycle life, and thermal stability, making it popular for solar storage.

A general class of rechargeable batteries known for high energy density, commonly used in laptops and electric vehicles.

Any device or appliance that consumes electrical power in a circuit (e.g., lights, fans, refrigerator).

Another term for a breaker panel or distribution box, the main point where power is distributed to branch circuits.

The field of force produced by moving electric charges, which is how energy is stored in an inductor.

The routine tasks (like cleaning panels, checking connections, or watering batteries) performed to keep a solar system in good working order.

The highest power (kW) consumed by a customer during a specific time interval, which can incur a demand charge from the utility.

The current (Amps) at which a solar panel operates to produce its maximum power (Wattage).

The point on a solar panel's current-voltage curve where the panel produces the maximum possible power (Wattage).

A sophisticated charge controller technology that finds and uses the optimal operating voltage and current (Vmp and Imp) of the solar array to maximize power output.

The voltage (Volts) at which a solar panel operates to produce its maximum power (Wattage).

The highest DC voltage the solar array can safely reach under the coldest operating conditions, used for equipment sizing.

A single-contact electrical connector used to connect solar panels; stands for Multi-Contact, 4mm diameter.

A large unit of power equal to one million Watts, typically used to rate the capacity of medium to large-scale solar farms.

A localized group of electricity sources and loads that typically operates connected to a traditional power grid but can disconnect and operate autonomously.

A very small inverter installed directly beneath each individual solar panel to convert DC to AC at the panel level.

Another term for a single solar panel, the basic building block of a photovoltaic system.

The stiffness or rigidity of a material, often referring to the strength of the solar panel frame or mounting components.

A hardware and software solution that tracks the performance, energy production, and health of a solar PV system in real-time.

A type of PV cell made from a single, continuous crystal structure, known for high efficiency and a uniform black appearance.

The long, structural metal pieces that are attached to the roof and on which the solar panels are clamped.

The structure (racking, rails, and brackets) used to secure solar panels to a roof or the ground.

A type of advanced PV cell that uses multiple layers of semiconducting material to capture a broader spectrum of sunlight, achieving very high efficiency.

A complex inverter design that uses multiple stages of power conversion for increased efficiency and reliability.

A newer, highly efficient solar cell technology that uses a different doping process than traditional P-Type cells, offering improved performance.

A standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in the United States, often referenced worldwide for best practices.

A special bidirectional electricity meter used in net metering systems that measures both the electricity drawn from and supplied to the grid.

A billing arrangement that allows customers with solar to receive credit for the excess electricity they feed back into the utility grid.

Unwanted electrical signals or interference that can disrupt the proper function of sensitive electronic devices.

The rounded, common reference voltage of a battery or system (e.g., 12V, 24V, 48V), used for easy identification and component matching.

A power system that operates entirely independent of the public electrical utility grid, relying solely on local generation and storage.

A break in an electrical circuit that prevents the flow of current, typically caused by a switch or a cut wire.

The maximum voltage a solar panel generates when it is not connected to any load or circuit (i.e., when no current is flowing).

The amount of usable electrical power (Watts) delivered by an inverter or solar array to the loads.

Draining a battery below its recommended minimum voltage, which can cause permanent damage and reduce its lifespan.

A safety feature that shuts down a device or circuit if the incoming voltage exceeds a safe limit, protecting components from damage.

The safety function of a fuse or circuit breaker that automatically opens a circuit when the current exceeds a safe level.

Wiring components so that the positive terminals are connected together and the negative terminals are connected together, increasing current (Amps) while keeping the voltage the same.

A device used for battery cell balancing that drains the charge from the highest-voltage cells until they match the lowest-voltage cell, wasting excess energy as heat.

Cooling techniques that rely on natural heat transfer (convection, radiation) without using mechanical devices like fans.

Cooling techniques that rely on natural heat transfer (convection, radiation) without using mechanical devices like fans.

The length of time required for the money saved on electricity to equal the initial investment cost of the solar system.

The maximum amount of electrical power (Watts) demanded by a home or facility at any given time.

The number of hours per day during which the intensity of sunlight averages 1,000 watts per square meter (1 kW/m^2).

The formal process of obtaining authorization from local government or utility authorities to install and operate a solar power system.

The mandated set of standards and regulations for the safe installation and use of electrical systems in the Philippines.

Relating to the direct conversion of light into electricity using semiconducting materials, which is the process that happens in a solar panel.

The physical process in which a solar cell converts light energy into electrical energy.

Cable that is approved for use in air-handling spaces (plenums) within buildings, often having low-smoke and fire-resistant properties.

A type of PV cell made from multiple silicon crystal fragments, resulting in a slightly lower efficiency and a blue, speckled appearance.

A common type of plastic material used for electrical conduit and wire insulation due to its low cost and durability.

Another term for voltage, the difference in electrical charge between two points in a circuit.

The rate at which electrical energy is transferred or used, measured in Watts (W).

A device designed to improve the quality of the power being supplied to equipment, protecting against surges, spikes, and noise.

A general term for any device that manages the flow of electricity, such as a charge controller or a smart switch.

A measure of how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work, represented by the ratio of real power to apparent power.

The technique of adjusting the power factor of an AC system closer to 1.0 to increase system efficiency and reduce waste.

The degree to which the voltage, frequency, and waveform of the electricity supply adhere to specified standards, which impacts equipment operation.

A block of electrical sockets attached to the end of a flexible cable, allowing multiple electrical devices to be powered from a single outlet.

The act of installing all the necessary wiring, conduits, and mounting systems before the final components (panels, inverters) are attached.

The main, intended source of electricity for a system, which is typically the solar array and batteries in an off-grid setup.

The total amount of electricity generated by the solar array over a period of time, typically measured in kWh.

A basic charge controller technology that limits the current to the battery by rapidly switching the connection on and off.

The basic, individual unit of a solar panel that converts sunlight directly into electricity.

Another term for the mounting system or structure that supports the solar panels on the roof or ground.

A safety feature that quickly reduces the voltage of the solar array to a very low level in case of emergency (like a fire), protecting first responders.

The maximum power output (Wattage) a solar panel or inverter is designed to continuously deliver under standard operating conditions.

A numerical value assigned to equipment (like an inverter or panel) indicating its maximum operating limits or capacity.

The power that flows back and forth and does no useful work, required by inductive loads like motors, measured in Volt-Amperes Reactive (VAR).

The process in a solar cell where excited electrons fall back to their original state, which results in a loss of efficiency.

An electrical device that converts Alternating Current (AC) into Direct Current (DC).

Another term for a charge controller, a device that controls the voltage and current to the battery.

Energy derived from natural resources that are naturally replenished, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat.

A common safety device in the Philippines and other countries that quickly breaks an electrical circuit when it detects current leakage to earth.

The opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in Ohms (Ω). Thicker wires have lower resistance.

The voltage of a battery after it has rested, or been disconnected from any charge or load, for at least a few hours, giving the most accurate reading of its State of Charge (SOC).

A financial metric that measures the benefit an investor receives in relation to the cost of the investment, often used to calculate solar payback time.

A type of heavy-duty metal conduit used for maximum physical protection of electrical wiring in solar installations.

Any point where the solar mounting system or wiring passes through or is attached to the waterproof layer of the roof.

A switch used to physically isolate components, such as a battery bank or inverter, for safe maintenance and emergency situations.

A backup or alternative source of electricity that is used only when the primary power source is unavailable or insufficient.

The portion of a home's solar power production that is immediately used by the appliances within the home, rather than being exported to the grid.

A material (like silicon) with electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator, which forms the basis of PV cells.

The required safety distance between electrical components, such as conductors, to prevent arcing and fire hazards.

Wiring components so that the positive terminal of one is connected to the negative terminal of the next, increasing the total voltage while keeping the current (Amps) the same.

The internal resistance to current flow within a solar cell or battery, which reduces the total power output.

The point where the electric power lines enter a building, connecting the utility grid to the main electrical panel.

The obstruction of sunlight from reaching a solar panel, caused by trees, buildings, or dirt, which significantly reduces power output.

A specific type of solar mounting bracket designed to be installed beneath or attached to asphalt shingles on a roof.

An unintended, low-resistance connection between two conductors (like positive and negative wires) that allows a dangerously high current to flow.

A component, typically a small resistor, used to create a measurable voltage drop proportional to the current flowing through a circuit, mainly for monitoring.

A less expensive, 'stepped' waveform of AC electricity that is less pure than a pure sine wave, often unsuitable for sensitive devices.

The desired smooth, oscillating waveform of AC electricity, which is required by sensitive electronics and appliances.

A mechanical mounting system that rotates the solar array to follow the sun's path across the sky from east to west.

The complete, power-generating assembly of all the solar panels and their structural mounts.

An electronic device that regulates the power flowing from the solar array to the battery bank and protects the batteries from overcharging or over-discharging. It is often abbreviated as SCC.

The total amount of solar energy incident upon a specific surface over a period of time, measured in Wh/m².

A device designed to absorb the sun's rays and convert them into electricity; also called a photovoltaic module.

A complete setup, including panels, inverter, mounting, and wiring, designed to convert sunlight into usable electricity.

Another common term for a solar charge controller (SCC), which regulates power from the panels to the battery.

Technology that converts sunlight into heat for water heating or space heating, distinct from photovoltaic (PV) which makes electricity.

Another term for an off-grid system, entirely self-sufficient and not connected to the public utility grid.

The controlled laboratory conditions (1000 W/m² irradiance, 25°C cell temperature) under which solar panels are rated for power output.

The small amount of electrical power consumed by devices (like TVs or chargers) even when they are turned off or not in use.

The very high, brief current draw required by motors (inductive loads) at the moment they are turned on.

The ratio of the electrical charge currently stored in a battery to its maximum capacity, usually expressed as a percentage.

The act of collecting and retaining electrical energy for later use, primarily done using battery banks.

The collective term for all the batteries and associated wiring used to store solar energy.

The total amount of energy (Wh or kWh) that a battery bank is capable of holding.

A series of solar panels wired together to increase the total operating voltage of the array.

The use of fuses to protect each individual string (series connection) of solar panels from overcurrent.

A centralized inverter that handles the DC power from an entire 'string' or array of solar panels at once, converting it all to AC.

A smaller electrical panel that branches off from the main service panel, distributing power to a specific area or set of loads.

An assembly of equipment that changes the voltage of electricity before it is transmitted or distributed to customers.

A measure of the total solar energy received per day, usually calculated for system sizing by multiplying the sun's average intensity by the number of hours it shines.

A sudden, short-lived increase in voltage in an electrical circuit, which can be caused by lightning or the switching of large motors.

The maximum power (in Watts) an inverter can momentarily provide, which is necessary for starting inductive loads like motors and compressors.

A component designed to redirect high-energy voltage surges to the earth ground, protecting electrical equipment.

A component installed in an electrical system to protect equipment from voltage spikes or transients by diverting excess energy to the ground.

Official documentation from a government or safety body confirming that the installed solar system meets all required safety and quality standards.

The published price structure or schedule of rates charged by the utility company for electricity use.

Services provided by a company to assist users with installation, troubleshooting, and operation of their solar equipment.

A factor that indicates how much a solar panel's voltage and power output will decrease for every degree the cell temperature rises above 25°C.

A dangerous condition in a battery where rising temperature causes uncontrolled increasing temperature and current, leading to fire or explosion.

A class of solar panel technology made by depositing very thin layers of photovoltaic material onto a substrate.

A manufacturing method for solar panels where the PV material is deposited in very thin layers, resulting in lighter, more flexible panels.

A system of AC power generation and distribution using three separate conductors that carry alternating current, common in large commercial buildings.

The angle at which the solar panels are mounted, measured up from the horizontal surface, to maximize sun exposure.

An electricity rate structure where the cost of electricity varies based on the time of day it is used, often costing more during peak hours.

A battery cell balancing method where all cells are fully charged before being connected, ensuring they are all at the same State of Charge (SOC) at the top end.

A power transformer with a round, donut-shaped core that is highly efficient, compact, and produces less noise than traditional transformers.

A measure of the harmonic content (messiness) in an AC voltage or current waveform, where lower THD indicates cleaner power quality.

A mechanical mounting structure that automatically adjusts the orientation of solar panels to follow the sun's movement.

A device that switches a home's electrical load from one power source (like the grid) to another (like a generator or battery).

An electrical device that transfers energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction, usually to change the voltage level.

A clear, protective layer on the back of a solar panel used in bi-facial modules to allow light to pass through and reflect back onto the cells.

The process of identifying and resolving faults or problems within a solar electrical system.

A structural framework or beam used in roof construction to support the roof load.

A mechanical mounting system that rotates the solar array to follow the sun both horizontally (east-west) and vertically (altitude).

Designation given to a product that has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to meet safety standards.

A condition in a multi-phase system where the current flowing through one of the conductors is significantly higher or lower than the others.

A condition where the electrical voltage in a circuit or system drops below the normal or required operating level.

A global safety science company that provides certification and testing for electronic and electrical products, ensuring they meet safety standards.

A device or component designed to allow the flow of current or power in only one direction.

A device that provides immediate, short-term backup power, typically to sensitive electronics like computers, when the primary power source fails.

The company or entity responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity (e.g., Meralco in parts of the Philippines).

A term describing a solar system that is designed to operate in parallel with and connect to the public utility grid (grid-tied).

A component of a solar thermal system that uses a vacuum-sealed glass tube to efficiently absorb solar heat for water heating.

A sealed lead-acid battery type (including AGM and Gel) that minimizes water loss and does not require maintenance.

A material used in construction to prevent the migration of moisture (vapor) into the building structure, protecting electrical equipment.

Another term for a flooded lead-acid battery, which has vents to allow gasses produced during charging to escape.

The process of supplying and removing air to and from an enclosed space, essential for cooling and removing hazardous gasses from FLA batteries.

The voltage (Volts) at which a solar panel produces the maximum amount of power under standard test conditions.

The unit of apparent power in an AC circuit, often used to rate the output capacity of inverters and transformers.

The measure of electrical potential difference or pressure, driving the current through a circuit, measured in Volts (V).

The reduction in voltage across a conductor due to resistance, leading to a loss of power, which is greater over longer or thinner wires.

An electrical device that maintains a constant voltage level, protecting sensitive components from variations in the power supply.

The unit of measure for electrical voltage or potential difference.

Legal guarantees provided by the manufacturer regarding the performance, materials, and workmanship of solar equipment over a specified period.

A solar-powered setup using PV panels and a pump to draw water from a well or reservoir, common in off-grid applications.

A unit of electrical energy equal to the use of one Watt of power for one hour.

The maximum rated power output of a solar panel under Standard Test Conditions (STC), often the primary rating listed by the manufacturer.

The unit of electrical power, representing the rate of energy flow or consumption.

A fitting installed at the top of the electrical service mast where wires enter a building, designed to protect connections from rain.

The trading floor for electricity in the Philippines where power is bought and sold, affecting the final cost to consumers.

The force exerted by wind on solar panels and their mounting structure, which must be considered during installation to prevent damage.

An organized bundle of wires, cables, or connectors that are pre-assembled to connect a complex system, such as a battery bank or inverter.

The process of selecting the correct diameter (AWG) of electrical wire to safely carry the required current with minimal voltage drop.

A technical drawing that shows the electrical connections and components of a solar system using standardized symbols.

A guarantee provided by the installer that the actual installation of the solar system will be free from defects for a specified period.

A non-destructive testing method sometimes used by manufacturers to check solar cells for internal defects and microcracks that are not visible.

The total amount of electrical energy produced by a solar system over the course of one year, measured in kWh.

A type of small, Z-shaped aluminum bracket commonly used to mount small, rigid solar panels onto RVs, boats, or small sheds.

A device or setting that prevents a grid-tied solar system from sending any excess power back to the utility grid.

A metal-air battery that uses zinc and oxygen from the air as the active materials, known for its high energy density but non-rechargeable in its primary form.