Solar Energy: Jargon Buster

Navigating the world of solar energy can sometimes feel like deciphering an alphabet soup of acronyms. If terms like “AC,” “kWh,” or “MCS” have left you puzzled, you’re not alone. Welcome to your ultimate cheat sheet for the dazzlingly complex world of solar energy!

Ever found yourself tangled in a web of acronyms, wondering if AC stands for air conditioning or something far more electrifying? Fear not! This page is here to help. We’ve curated a comprehensive glossary to clarify all things solar in the UK.

From the magical realm of photovoltaic panels to the not-so-mystical but absolutely necessary terms like “DNO” and “FiT,” we’ve got you covered. So, dive in and get ready to master the language of solar energy!

Solar panel installation jargons

 

Electrical and Power Terms

  • AC – Alternating Current
  • DC – Direct Current
  • kW – Kilowatt
  • kWh – Kilowatt-hour
  • MW – Megawatt
  • GW – Gigawatt
  • V – Volt(s)
  • Voc – Volts, Open Circuit
  • W – Watt(s)
  • Ah – Ampere-hour
  • mAh – Milli Ampere-hour
  • LCOE – Levelized Cost of Energy
  • Pmax – Maximum Power Rating
  • PPA – Power Purchase Agreement

Solar Power Technologies and Components

  • BIPV – Building Integrated Photovoltaics
  • CSP – Concentrated Solar Power
  • PV – Photovoltaic
  • MicroCHP – Micro Combined Heat and Power
  • PCS – Power Conversion System (Inverter)
  • BSS – Battery Storage System
  • ASHP – Air Source Heat Pump

Measurement and Efficiency

  • NOCT – Normal Operating Cell Temperature
  • STC – Standard Test Conditions
  • GHI – Global Horizontal Irradiance
  • Isc – Short Circuit Current
  • Ip – Current of the panel at peak power output
  • Vmp – Voltage at Maximum Power

Certification and Standards

  • MCS – Microgeneration Certification Scheme
  • ISO – International Organisation for Standards
  • NIC – National Inspection Council certification
  • REGO – Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin
  • SRECs – Solar Renewable Energy Certificates

Incentives and Schemes

  • FiT – Feed-in Tariff
  • RHI – Renewable Heat Incentive
  • SEG – Smart Export Guarantee
  • PACE – Property Assessed Clean Energy

Planning and Installation

  • PD – Permitted Development
  • DNO – Distribution Network Operator
  • EMS – Energy Management System
  • BMS – Battery Management System
  • UKPN – UK Power Networks