Welcome to the LVP Renewables Solar Energy Glossary. Here, you’ll find clear definitions for key terms related to solar panels, PV solar panels, thermodynamic solar panels, and solar hot water systems for both domestic and commercial settings. Whether you’re considering a solar installation for your home or business, or simply want to understand the latest in renewable energy solutions, this glossary will help you navigate industry jargon and make informed decisions. Explore essential terminology to maximise your understanding of sustainable energy options and discover how solar technology can benefit you.

Core Solar Panels

  • Solar Panel
     A device that converts sunlight into electricity, typically installed on rooftops or ground-mounted frames. LVP Renewables specialises in both photovoltaic (PV) and Thermodynamic solar panels for both domestic and commercial settings.
  • Photovoltaic (PV) Panel
     A type of solar panel that uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight directly into electrical energy.
  • PV Cell (Photovoltaic Cell)
     A semiconductor device, usually made of silicon, that generates electricity when exposed to light.
  • Solar Array
     A group of interconnected solar panels working together to generate electricity.
  • Solar Module
     Another term for a solar panel; a packaged assembly of PV cells.
  • Inverter
     A device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) used in homes and businesses.
  • Solar Irradiance
     The amount of solar power received per unit area at a given location.
  • Peak Sun Hours
     The average number of hours per day when solar irradiance is strong enough to be considered optimal for energy production.
  • Mounting System
     The framework that secures solar panels to a roof or ground installation.

Thermodynamic & PV Hybrids

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

  • Thermodynamic Solar Panel
     A system that absorbs heat from the atmosphere and sunlight to heat water, operating efficiently even in cloudy or cold conditions. It combines principles of heat pumps and solar thermal technology.
  • Heat Exchanger
     A component that transfers heat from the thermodynamic panel’s fluid to the water in the hot water cylinder.
  • Compressor
     A device in thermodynamic systems that increases the temperature of the refrigerant fluid before heat transfer.
  • Refrigerant Fluid
     A specialised liquid that circulates within thermodynamic panels, absorbing and transferring heat.

Solar Hot Water & Thermal

  • Solar Hot Water System
     A setup that uses solar energy to heat water for domestic or commercial use, often involving collectors, pipes, and storage tanks.
  • Solar Collector
     A component that captures solar energy and transfers it to a heat transfer fluid or directly to water.
  • Flat Plate Collector
     A common type of solar collector featuring a flat, glazed surface to absorb sunlight.
  • Evacuated Tube Collector
     A solar collector made up of glass tubes, each containing a heat-absorbing pipe, offering high efficiency in colder climates.
  • Open Loop System
     A solar hot water system where water flows directly through the collectors and into the hot water supply.
  • Closed Loop System
     A system where a heat transfer fluid circulates through the collectors and a heat exchanger, separate from the potable water supply.
  • Thermosyphon
     A method of circulating water or heat transfer fluid in a solar system using natural convection, without a pump.

Performance & Technical Terms

  • Efficiency
     The percentage of sunlight converted into usable electricity or heat by a solar panel or system.
  • Rated Power (Watts)
    The maximum electrical output a solar panel can produce under standard test conditions.
  • Temperature Coefficient
     Indicates how well a solar panel performs as temperature increases; lower coefficients mean better performance in heat.
  • Grid-Connected (On-Grid)
     A solar system linked to the public electricity grid, allowing surplus energy to be exported.
  • Off-Grid
     A standalone solar system not connected to the public electricity grid, often paired with batteries for energy storage.
  • Net Metering
     A billing arrangement that credits solar energy system owners for electricity exported to the grid.
  • Kilowatt-Peak (kWp)
    Kilowatt-peak is a measure of the system’s potential output. This is a measure of the output of a solar panel under peak conditions. A solar panel rated for 2kWp for example, will produce 2 kilowatt-hours of energy in an hour in ideal conditions. Most solar panels will produce about 90-95% of their kWp rating on a sunny day.

Commercial & Domestic Context

  • Domestic Solar System
     A solar installation designed for private homes, typically smaller in scale.
  • Commercial Solar System
     A larger-scale solar installation for businesses, schools, or industrial premises.
  • Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
     Solar panels integrated into building materials, such as roof tiles or façades.
  • Ground-Mounted Solar
     Panels installed on a framework anchored to the ground, often used for larger commercial systems.

Additional Terms

  • Renewable Energy
     Energy derived from sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydro.
  • Green Energy
     Energy generated in ways that have a minimal environmental impact, reducing carbon emissions.
  • Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
     The national body promoting renewable energy adoption and offering grants for solar installations.
  • Zero Rate VAT
     A tax incentive in Ireland for the supply and installation of solar panels on private dwellings, reducing the upfront cost for homeowners.