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

The difference between the total cooling effect and the dehumidifying effect.

Solar collector thermal performance ratings based on collector efficiencies, usually expressed in Btu per hour for solar collectors under standard test or operating conditions for solar radiation intensity, inlet working fluid temperatures, and ambient te ...

The change in direction of a ray of light when it passes through one media to another with differing optical densities.

An electric current induced by radiant energy.

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.

The thermal energy used in an industrial process.

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 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.

A device or media that absorbs heat for storage for later use.

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

A type of solar thermal collector in which a heat transfer fluid drips out of header pipe at the top of the collector, runs down the collector absorber and into a tray at the bottom where it drains to a storage tank.

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.

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

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

Space cooling achieved by shading, natural (unassisted, as opposed to forced) ventilation, conduction control, radiation, and evaporation; also called passive cooling.

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

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.