Nabcep® Definition

What is NABCEP®? NABCEP® stands for North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. NABCEP is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to setting industry standards for solar PV (photovoltaic) installation and PV technical sales professionals. The organization was founded in 2002 and is recognized as the gold standard in solar PV certification. The primary goal … Read more

Ballast Mount Definition

What is a ballast mount? A ballast is a weight that is used to hold a structure in place or prevent it from tipping over. A ballast mount, also known as a ballasted mount, is a type of solar panel installation technique that involves the use of weights, typically ballasts, to secure the solar panel … Read more

Array Definition

What is a solar array? A solar array is the primary component of a solar power system. It refers to a group of solar panels connected together to generate electricity. A solar panel, also known as a photovoltaic (PV) module, is a device that captures sunlight and converts it into electrical energy. The solar panels … Read more

Peak Sun Hours Definition

What are peak sun hours? Peak sun hours refer to the amount of time during the day when the sun’s intensity is strong enough to generate power from solar panels. This is the time period when the sun’s rays are at their highest and most direct angle, thus providing the most energy for solar panels … Read more

Azimuth Angle Definition

Understanding Azimuth Angle in Solar Panel Installation The azimuth angle is an important factor to consider when installing solar panels. It refers to the angle at which the panels are angled with respect to true south. The azimuth angle can impact the amount of energy that the solar panels can generate since having the correct … Read more

Fixed Tilt Definition

What is Fixed Tilt? Fixed tilt refers to the mounting system used for solar panels that are installed at a fixed angle and position. This is in contrast to other mounting systems, such as tracker systems, that allow the panels to move and follow the sun throughout the day. With fixed tilt systems, the solar … Read more

Monitoring Systems Definition

Introduction to Monitoring Systems Monitoring systems are an essential aspect of solar panel installations. These are advanced systems that collect data and provide real-time information about the performance of your solar panel system. The primary purpose of a monitoring system is to make it easier for you to keep track of how much energy your … Read more

Interconnection Definition

Understanding Interconnection In the context of solar panel installation, interconnection refers to the process of connecting your solar panel system to the power grid. The process involves technical requirements that must be met before your system can be approved for connection. Before interconnecting, there are rules and regulations set forth by the utility company, which … Read more

Meter Definition

What is a Meter in Solar Panel Installation? In solar panel installation, a meter is a device that measures the amount of electricity generated by the solar panels. It is also used to measure the amount of electricity that is fed back into the grid when excess energy is produced. There are two types of … Read more

Balance Of System (B Definition

What is Balance Of System (BOS)? Balance of System (BOS) refers to all the components and equipment required for a solar panel installation, excluding the solar panels themselves. It includes items such as the mounting systems, inverters, electrical wiring and protection devices, monitoring systems, and other ancillary equipment. While solar panels are undoubtedly the most … Read more