Solar energy efficiency industries association (seia)
A national trade association of solar energy equipment manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, installers, and consultants.
Solar energy efficiency research institute (seri)
A federally funded institute, created by the Solar Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Act of 1974, that conducted research and development of solar energy technologies. Became the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in 1991.
Solar film
A window glazing coating, usually tinted bronze or gray, used to reduce building cooling loads, glare, and fabric fading.
Solar fraction
The percentage of a building's seasonal energy requirements that can be met by a solar energy device(s) or system(s).
Solar furnace
A device that achieves very high temperatures by the use of reflectors to focus and concentrate sunlight onto a small receiver.
Solar gain
The amount of energy that a building absorbs due to solar energy striking its exterior and conducting to the interior or passing through windows and being absorbed by materials in the building.
Solar heating
Heating method of energy gained from sunlight by use of special glass panels.
Solar irradiation
The amount of solar radiation, both direct and diffuse, received at any location.
Solar mass
A term used for materials used to absorb and store solar energy.
Solar module (panel)
A solar photovoltaic device that produces a specified power output under defined test conditions, usually composed of groups of solar cells connected in series, in parallel, or in series-parallel combinations.
