When it comes to solar energy, sometimes it can be difficult to understand the various technical references. We found a guide to common solar power definitions that can help anyone that is considering the possibility of going solar.

A guide to solar power definitions
1. Photovoltaic (PV) module: Also known as a solar panel, a PV module converts energy from the sun into direct current (DC) energy. You will need an inverter to convert it into usable AC (alternating current) in your home. PV modules come in varying wattages and sizes. Typical PV modules used on home installations are 200 watts and about 14 square feet.
2. PV solar array: This term refers to a number of PV modules wired together. If you have 5 x 200 watt PV modules, you have created a 1,000 watt PV solar array. Typical array sizes range from 2,000 to 5,000 watts.
3. Inverter: Mentioned above, this component of a solar power system converts DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity. A 3,000 watt inverter will output 3,000 watts of AC electricity given enough PV input. Typical inverter sizes range from 2,000 watts to 7,000 watts.
4. Grid-tied solar system: A solar electrical system composed of a PV solar array and inverter, which are connected to and interact with the utility grid. Other devices called over current protection devices or OCPD are used for safety. Energy from the PV array goes to household loads first, and any extra power is stored on the utility grid through net metering.
5. Kilowatt hour (kwh): One kilowatt (1,000 watts) for 1 hour = 1 kilowatt hour. Your utility company charges by the number of kwh you use.

Common solar power definitions can help you make sense of solar energy systems
6. Daily energy requirements: When you install a PV solar array, you could be generating most, if not all, the energy your home needs. Look at your utility bill or call your utility company to determine your energy use in terms of kilowatt hours per day or kwh/day. Use the average kwh/day for the last 12 months to account for seasonal variations in energy consumption.
7. Shade-free space: PV solar modules need direct sunlight to produce electricity. Shading from trees or other adjacent buildings will affect efficiency. Your PV array must be located where it will receive direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
8. Project budget: Solar electric systems start at around $5K but most fall in the $20K to $40K range. There are federal and state incentives and rebates to take advantage of that will significantly decrease out of pocket costs. It may not be possible to produce 100% of the energy you use and many systems are supplemental, producing as much as space and/or budget allow.
If you are thinking about home solar panels, consider these calculations for system size and cost:
System size in kilowatts (kw) = (kwh/day) / 5 hours (peak sun) x 1.43 (system losses)
Step 1: Divide average kwh/day by number of hours of peak sun, or (kwh/ay) / 5
Step 2: Multiply by 1.43 to account for system losses due to friction, heat, and other inefficiencies.
Example: What size system is needed to produce 20kwh/day?
20kwh/5h = 4kw
4kw x 1.43= 5.7kw
5.7kw = system size to produce 20kwh/day assuming 5 peak sun hours
System cost = system size x $7,000 to $9,000
Step 1: multiply system size by $7 for competitive system cost installed
Step 2: multiply system size by $9 for conservative system cost installed
Example: How much would a 5.7kw system cost?
5.7kw x $7,000 = $40,040 = competitive system cost
5.7kw x $9,000 = $51,480 = conservative system cost
Are there any other solar power definitions that leave you wondering about whether to go solar at your home?