Solar 101

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Last updated 2:01 PM on 5/29/26
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43 Terms

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Photovoltaic (PV)
The process of generating voltage when sunlight hits materials (usually semiconductors).
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Radiant Energy
Energy from the sun that solar panels convert into electricity.
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Solar Power Density
About 1,000 watts per square meter of sunlight at Earth’s surface.
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Efficiency (Solar Panels)
Percentage of sunlight converted into electricity; modern panels ~20%.
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DC (Direct Current)
Electricity generated by solar panels.
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AC (Alternating Current)
Electricity used by the grid and produced after inversion.
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AC Watts
Total inverter output (Inverter count × rated output).
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DC Watts
Total module output (module count × watt rating).
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PV Module (Solar Panel)
Device that converts sunlight into DC electricity.
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Combiner Box
Combines multiple DC circuits into one output for the inverter.
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Inverter
Converts DC power into AC power for grid use.
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Transformer
Increases voltage (low voltage to medium voltage) for transmission.
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MV Switchgear
Central point where AC power is combined and distributed.
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Monocrystalline
Made from a single silicon crystal; most efficient and expensive.
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Polycrystalline
Made from multiple silicon crystals; less efficient but cheaper.
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Thin-Film (Amorphous)
Flexible, least efficient, lowest cost.
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Bifacial Module
Captures sunlight on both sides to increase energy output.
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Racking System
Structure that holds solar panels in place.
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Fixed Tilt
Panels set at a fixed angle based on location.
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Single-Axis Tracking
Panels rotate to follow the sun east to west.
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Dual-Axis Tracking
Panels follow the sun in two directions (higher efficiency, higher cost).
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Driven Piles/Posts
Steel supports driven into the ground (most common).
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Screwpile
Screw-like foundation used in difficult soil conditions.
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Ballasted Foundation
Uses heavy concrete instead of ground penetration.
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String
Series connection of multiple solar modules.
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String Wiring
Wires connecting modules to a combiner box.
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DC Collection Circuit
Carries DC power from combiner box to inverter.
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Conduit/Raceway
Protective paths for electrical wiring.
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Fiber Optic Cable
Used for communication and monitoring signals.
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Block
Group of equipment tied to one inverter (modules, racks, transformer, etc.).
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Tracking Array
Group of panels controlled by a single tracking motor.
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SCADA System
Central system that monitors and controls plant operations.
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Meteorological Station (Met Station)
Measures weather data like sunlight and temperature.
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Soiling Station
Measures how dirt affects panel performance.
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Module Temperature Sensor
Tracks panel temperature for efficiency analysis.
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Trenching
Digging paths to install underground cables.
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Cable Plowing
Fast method of burying cable without open trenching.
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Site Work
Preparation of land (roads, grading, drainage).
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Electrical Safety
Precautions to avoid shock from DC/AC power.
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Heat Exhaustion
Risk due to outdoor work conditions.
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Confined Space
Restricted work areas requiring safety measures.
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Trenching Hazards
Risks of collapse or injury in excavations.
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