Log in Get a free demo

Solar terms, defined

Plain definitions of the solar words that come up on estimates, inspections and supplier calls, written for solar installers. Each term says where it matters on the job and links the Koira calculator, cost guide or template that goes with it.

B

SolarBattery storageBattery storage is a home battery system that stores electricity from solar or the grid to use later or during an outage.

I

SolarInterconnection agreementAn interconnection agreement is the utility's approval and contract to connect a solar system to the grid.

K

SolarKilowatt-hourA kilowatt-hour is the unit of energy on an electric bill: a kilowatt of power used for an hour.

M

SolarMicroinverterA microinverter is a small inverter mounted under each solar panel, so every panel makes alternating current on its own.

N

SolarNet meteringNet metering is a utility billing setup where power a solar system sends to the grid is credited against power the house draws from it.

P

Shared with ElectricalPhantom loadPhantom load is the power devices draw while switched off or idle, such as chargers, TVs and appliances with clocks or remote standby.SolarPhotovoltaicPhotovoltaic, or PV, means turning sunlight straight into electricity with solar cells.

R

SolarRapid shutdownRapid shutdown is a safety function that drops the voltage in rooftop solar wiring to a safe level quickly when the system is switched off, so firefighters can work on the roof.

S

SolarSolar inverterAn inverter turns the direct current from solar panels into the alternating current a house uses.SolarSolar rackingRacking is the rails, mounts and flashings that hold solar panels to a roof or a ground frame.

T

Shared with ElectricalTransfer switchA transfer switch moves a house's circuits from utility power to a generator and back, so the generator can never feed power back into the utility lines.

W

Shared with ElectricalWattA watt is the unit of electrical power, the rate at which energy is used.

More for solar installers: free solar tools, templates and guides and how the trade runs on Koira. Or browse the whole glossary.

Built for solar installers. Start with a free AI report.

Get my free AI report Get a free demo

☼⚙

Standard⚡ Turbo

● Koira did it● You by hand

Today $9,300$8,100 / $1,200

This week $25,050$18,570 / $6,480

This month $69,300$46,150 / $23,150

Money, just now

Reminded Sean Love, $1,850. Polite reminder with the pay link.

Bids, 9:44 am

Nudged Dana on the kitchen bid. Day 3 follow up. She opened it at 9:12.

Convos, 9:41 am

Texted back a missed call. Walk through booked Thu 10:00.

Solar Glossary: Terms and Definitions for Solar installers | Koira