The generation of an electric current, when two conductors of different metals are joined at their ends to form a circuit, with the two junctions kept at different temperatures.

The maximum value of natural solar insolation.

Any material that has a limited capacity for conducting an electric current. Certain semiconductors, including silicon, gallium arsenide, copper indium diselenide, and cadmium telluride, are uniquely suited to the photovoltaic conversion process.

A configuration of an electrical circuit in which the positive lead is connected to the negative lead of another energy producing, conducting, or consuming device. The voltages of each device are additive, whereas the current is not.

Those privately or publicly owned establishments that generate, transmit, distribute, or sell electricity.

A way of joining photovoltaic cells or modules by connecting positive leads together and negative leads together; such a configuration increases the current, but not the voltage.

The addition of dopants to a semiconductor.

For valves and fittings, implies that they are suitable for working pressures between 125 to 175 pounds per square inch.

The thermal energy used in an industrial process.

The amount of heat in a quantity of matter at a specific temperature and pressure.

A unit or measure of solar radiation; 1 calorie per square meter or 3.69 Btu per square foot.

A product of crude oil that is used for space heating, diesel engines, and electrical generation.

A solar energy concentrating technology that uses a linear receiver that tracks the focal area of a reflector or array of reflectors.

A discontinuance of electric power supply.

A structure or media that absorbs heat.

A component of a water heating system that opens at a designated temperature or pressure to prevent a possible tank, radiator, or delivery pipe rupture.

The power output of a device under specific or nominal operating conditions.

A wheel that is designed to use the weight and/or force of moving water to turn it, primarily to operate machinery or grind grain.

The amount that the voltage, current, and/or power output of a solar cell changes due to a change in the cell temperature.

The amount (percent) of light that is reflected by a surface relative to the amount that strikes it.