Welcome to the Solarado Glossary of Terms. Here, you’ll find clear definitions of solar, roofing, and general energy concepts that inform our services. Whether you’re exploring solar panel installation or learning about roof replacements, our glossary is designed to answer your most common questions in a straightforward way.
A
Alternate Current (AC)
Electric current that periodically reverses direction, as opposed to direct current (DC). Solar panels produce DC power, which must be converted to AC power via an inverter for home or business use.
B
Battery Storage
A system that stores excess electricity (often generated by solar panels) in batteries. This stored energy can be used during peak demand times, grid outages, or at night, maximizing energy independence.
Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
Solar PV materials that are integrated directly into the building envelope, such as roofs or façades, offering both aesthetic and functional solutions for generating solar energy.
C
Carbon Footprint
A measure of the total greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. Installing solar panels helps reduce your carbon footprint by lowering dependence on fossil fuels.
Climate Zone
A geographic area defined by temperature and precipitation patterns that influence local building codes, roofing materials, and solar efficiency. Understanding your climate zone can help optimize your solar system’s performance.
D
Direct Current (DC)
Electric current that flows in one direction. Solar panels generate DC power, which needs an inverter to convert it into AC power for household or commercial use.
E
Energy Efficiency
Using technology and practices to reduce energy consumption while maintaining the same service level. Combining solar installation with energy-efficient upgrades (like LED lighting or better insulation) can significantly lower utility bills.
Energy Monitoring
The process of tracking and analyzing energy consumption in real time. Solarado systems often include monitoring tools that provide insights into solar production, usage patterns, and potential savings.
F
Feed-in Tariff (FiT)
A policy mechanism designed to accelerate investment in renewable energy technologies by offering long-term contracts to renewable energy producers.
Flashing
Thin pieces of metal or waterproofing materials installed to direct water flow away from roofing penetrations (like around solar panel mounts). Proper flashing prevents leaks over the lifespan of your roof and solar panels.
G
Grid-Tied System
A solar power setup connected to the local utility grid. Excess electricity generated by the solar panels is fed back into the grid, and homeowners may earn credits under net metering policies.
I
Inverter
A critical component of any solar power system that converts the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC), which powers homes and businesses.
K
Kilowatt (kW)
A measure of electrical power equal to 1,000 watts. Residential solar systems are often sized in kilowatts (e.g., a 5 kW or 10 kW system).
Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)
A measure of energy usage or production over time. One kWh is equivalent to using 1 kW of power for one hour.
M
Microinverter
A small inverter mounted individually on each solar panel. Microinverters optimize power output at the panel level, boosting efficiency when parts of the array are shaded.
N
Net Metering
A billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for electricity added to the grid. Excess power production rolls back the electric meter, reducing utility costs.
P
Photovoltaic (PV)
A technology that converts sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials. PV panels (or solar panels) are the core component of any solar energy system.
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
A financing option where a solar provider installs the system on a property, and the homeowner or business owner purchases the generated electricity at a predetermined rate, often lower than utility prices.
R
R-Value
A measure of thermal resistance in building materials. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs alongside solar energy.
Renewable Energy Certificate (REC)
A market-based instrument that certifies ownership of renewable electricity (1 MWh per REC). Solar customers may sell RECs to utility companies or open markets.
S
Solar Panel Efficiency
The percentage of sunlight hitting a solar panel that gets converted into electricity. Higher efficiency panels generate more power in limited roof space.
Solar Power System
A complete setup including solar panels, inverters, mounting racks, wiring, and optional battery storage. Solarado designs customized solar power systems to match energy needs and budget.
T
Tax Incentives
Government-sponsored programs and rebates (like the Federal Investment Tax Credit) that encourage solar energy adoption. These incentives reduce upfront installation costs.
U
Underlayment
A waterproof or water-resistant layer beneath roofing materials. High-quality underlayment protects the roof deck and ensures durability under solar panel installations.
W
Watt (W)
A unit of power measuring energy conversion. Solar panel output is typically measured in watts (e.g., 300W or 400W panels).
Weatherproofing
Techniques and materials used to protect structures from weather. Proper weatherproofing prevents leaks and damage when installing solar panels.
Have More Questions?
If there’s a term not covered here or you need more details, contact our team. Our Solarado experts are here to guide you through every step of the solar and roofing process.
Disclaimer: This glossary is for informational purposes only. Definitions and policies may vary by location and regulatory changes. Always consult a certified professional for specific project guidance.