On 2/8/2011 3:40 PM, David Brearley wrote:
However, the term "panel" does appear in the NEC in the context of Article
690 "Solar Photovoltaic Systems." (You'll have to submit a proposal to the
Code Making Panel to change the name of the Article, Michael.) Panel is
defined a "collection of modules mechanically fastened together, wired and
designed to provide a field installable unit."

The third photo down in this article shows modules being panelized (bottom
left) and a panel being lifted into position by a crane (top right):

http://solarprofessional.com/article/?file=SP3_4_pg26_Bray&search=



I would say, good luck in trying to change the world's useof these words...

Kind of like the usage of "Bulk Voltage" vs. "Absorb Voltage" which we tried
to change years ago at OB.    (I'm not totally sure if that worked or not ?)

It's very hard for the majority of users/people to change old habits, even if
they are technically incorrect.

I find myself trying very hard to NOT say "solar panel", but to use the correct terminology.

Maybe an HP and/or SP article would be good on this and world will then all use
the correct terminology from that point on.

boB





On 2/8/11 5:19 PM, "Michael Welch"<michael.we...@re-wrenches.org>  wrote:

FYI, gang (and for what it is worth), Home Power magazine settled on the
following long ago, and it seems consistent with other uses:

A panel can be used to refer to something that captures heat energy, but does
not use the photovoltaic effect. (Like SHW panel, but even SHW "collector" is
what we usually use.)

A single framed set of PV cells with said connecting method is a PV module.
More than one PV module wired together in a set is an array (or a sub-array,
which can also refer to mechanical connection).
All the sub-arrays in a system constitute an array.

Admittedly, there is some arbitrariness in there, but we wanted the magazine
to be consistent.

There is no such thing as a "solar PV" module or panel -- but if there was it
would capture twice the amount of energy due to redundance.

benn kilburn wrote at 02:49 PM 2/8/2011:

Wrenchers,

Which term do you to describe a single framed unit with either a j-box or two
wire leads on the back, module or panel?
Which term do you believe to be correct and why?

My interpretation is that a single framed unit is a module.  Any number of
modules attached to a single detached 'rack' is a panel, and a group of
panels with the same orientation or mounting location/type is an array.

If you agree with my interpretation, what are your thoughts on the widespread
use of the term 'panel' to describe a module.

thanks,
benn

DayStar Renewable Energy Inc.
b...@daystarsolar.ca
780-906-7807
HAVE A SUNNY DAY


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