A popular term used to describe the heating effect due to the trapping of long wave (length) radiation by greenhouse gases produced from natural and human sources.

A term used to describe a technologically advanced window system that contains glazing that can change or switch its optical qualities when a low voltage electrical signal is applied to it, or in response to changes in heat or light.

An insulation product made of a fibrous material or plastic foams, pressed or extruded into board-like forms. It provides thermal and acoustical insulation strength with low weight, and coverage with few heat loss paths.

A stationary or rotating vent used to ventilate attics or cathedral ceilings; usually made of galvanized steel, or polypropylene.

A body of water that contains brackish (highly saline) water that forms layers of differing salinity (stratifies) that absorb and trap solar energy. Solar ponds can be used to provide heat for industrial or agricultural processes, building heating and coo ...

Legal documents that regulate construction to protect the health, safety, and welfare of people. Codes establish minimum standards but do not guarantee efficiency or quality.

A circular projection of the sky vault onto a flat diagram used to determine solar positions and shading effects of landscape features on a solar energy system.

A chemical element that can be used as a fuel since it has a very high energy content.

The analysis of atmospheric conditions, particularly moisture in the air.

A popular term used for an evaporative cooling device.

A chemical element (impurity) added in small amounts to an otherwise pure semiconductor material to modify the electrical properties of the material. An n-dopant introduces more electrons. A p-dopant creates electron vacancies (holes).

A construction element used to cover the exterior of wall framing and roof trusses.

A solar energy system designed to provide heat to individual rooms in a building.

Recombination occurring in the emitter region of a photovoltaic cell.

A commmon term refering to an electricity transmission and distribution system.

An electronic device that allows current to flow in one direction only.

A popular term for localized or on-site power generation.

A type of furnace in which fuel is burned and the heat is used to produce steam.

The amount of power density in sunlight received at the earth's surface at noon on a clear day (about 1,000 Watts/square meter).

The tank of a water heater.