Energy terms

In reference to solar energy systems, the angle that a solar collector is positioned above horizontal.

The overall rate of heat loss from a building by means of transmission plus infiltration, expressed in Btu per hour, per degree temperature difference between the inside and outside.

A unit of apparent power, equal to 1,000 volt-amperes; the mathematical product of the volts and amperes in an electrical circuit.

A material used to seal areas of potential air leakage into or out of a building envelope.

A long, underground metal or plastic pipe through which air is drawn. As air travels through the pipe it gives up some of its heat to the soil, and enters the house as cooler air.

An air distribution outlet, typically located in the ceiling, which mixes conditioned air with room air.

The downward facing structural element that is directly opposite the floor.

Energy available as a result of motion that varies directly in proportion to an object's mass and the square of its velocity.

Energy produced by the internal heat of the earth; geothermal heat sources include: hydrothermal convective systems; pressurized water reservoirs; hot dry rocks; manual gradients; and magma. Geothermal energy can be used directly for heating or to produce ...

A mound of dirt next to exterior walls to provide wind protection and insulation.

An enzyme complex, produced by fungi and bacteria, capable of decomposing cellulose into small fragments, primarily glucose.

A type of heat pump that transfers heat from outdoor air to indoor air during the heating season, and works in reverse during the cooling season.

The transparent or opaque sphere in an electric light that the electric light transmits through.

A generic term for a glazed opening that allows daylight to enter into a building and can be opened for ventilation.

An electricity supplier rate structure in which the per unit price of electricity decreases as the amount of energy increases. Normally only available to very large consumers.

The ratio of solar collector array area to actual land area.

The conversion of the complex carbohydrates in organic material into energy.

To disconnect a transmission and/or distribution line; a power line that is not carrying a current; to open a circuit.

A type of impulse hydropower turbine where water passes through nozzles and strikes cups arranged on the periphery of a runner, or wheel, which causes the runner to rotate, producing mechanical energy. The runner is fixed on a shaft, and the rotational mo ...