Solar Panel Glossary A-Z
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Get Free QuotesWhat do solar panel terms mean?
Key solar terms explained: AC (Alternating Current) — the type of electricity your home uses. Solar panels produce DC; the inverter converts to AC. BOS (Balance of System) — everything except the panels: inverter, wiring, mounting, meter. COP (Coefficient of Performance) — heat pump efficiency (COP 3 = 3kWh heat per 1kWh electricity). DC (Alternating Current) — what solar panels produce. Converted to AC by the inverter. DNO (Distribution Network Operator) — the company that manages your local electricity grid. EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) — rates your home's energy efficiency (A-G). kWh (kilowatt-hour) — unit of electricity. You pay per kWh (currently 24.5p). kWp (kilowatt-peak) — a solar panel's maximum output under test conditions. MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) — quality standard for solar installers. PV (Photovoltaic) — technology that converts sunlight to electricity. SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) — scheme requiring suppliers to pay for your exported solar electricity.
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Related: Home Heating Systems
Solar panels are most powerful when combined with an efficient heating system. Heat pumps use solar-generated electricity to heat your home at 300-400% efficiency — making them the ideal partner for solar.
Learn more about how air source heat pumps work alongside solar panels.
A heat pump converts 1kWh of electricity into 3-4kWh of heat.
From our sister site Home Heat Pump Guide
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