subject: Common Jargon You Should Know Before Shopping For Solar Panels [print this page] Common Jargon You Should Know Before Shopping For Solar Panels
Solar panels are a big investment so it is important to do your research before you invest. Arizona solar electric officials state that many people find information about solar panels a bit confusing, mostly because of the technical jargon that they run into. When it comes down to it, representatives at AZ solar companies point out that there are really only a few basic terms that you need to know. These are the most commonly used keywords that you will run into when researching and shopping for solar panels.
Photovoltaics is the science--or magic--behind solar panels. It is the method by which solar panels absorb the sun's energy and convert it into usable electricity. Photovoltaics is also referred to as PV and solar panels are often called PV systems.
Semiconductors are materials used in the photovoltaics process. Arizona solar electric experts state that silicon is the most common semiconducting material used in the making of solar panels. A semiconductor is a material that can "conduct" energy. The material is what absorbs solar radiation and helps turn it into electrical energy.
Solar cells are the square shaped devices that make up the grid-like face of a solar panel. They are composed of semiconducting materials. Mono-crystalline and poly-crystalline silicon solar cells are the most common types of cells, according to Arizona solar electric experts. They state that mono-crystalline silicon cells are the most efficient but they also cost the most money to make.
Solar arrays are groups of solar panels. Just like solar cells make up an individual solar panel, a group of solar panels creates a solar array. Arizona solar electric officials point out that the number of solar panels in a solar array depends on the energy needs of the home. A solar represenative will generally assess a home's past energy bills and they will do an on-site evaluation of the home to determine how many panels the home needs.
