Test 1 Flashcards
Photovoltaics is a solar energy technology that uses unique properties of semiconductors to directly convert solar radiation into electricity.
True
A distributed-generation system may serve as the only source of power for a consumer, or as back-up or supplemental power for a utility grid connection.
True
Photovoltaics has been a practical technology for power generation for more than 160 years.
False
Production and installation of PV systems is growing rapidly.
True
Portable PV systems can never be used while in motion.
False
Supplemental-power PV systems offset a portion of the power needed from the utility, resulting in lower electricity bills.
True
PV power plants can be located closer to populated areas than can conventional power plants because they do not involve hazardous materials or cause air, water, or noise pollution.
Ture
Numerous not-for-profit organizations work to promote and further the PV undustry, including organizations involved in research, marketing, installer training, and standards development.
True
A flat-plate collector can utilize any solar radiation, direct or reflected, that strikes its surface.
True
Passive solar design techniques incorporated into architecture increase the amount of energy needed for lighting, heating, cooling, and other loads.
False
A(n) ____ is a company that produces and/or distributes electricity from its central generation point to the consumer.
Utility
Distributed-generation systems can include ____.
PV systems, wind turbines, and engine generators. (all of the above)
Portable PV systems power mobile loads such as ____.
vehicles, temporary signs and lighting, and handheld devices. (all of the above)
____ components are the electrical and structural components, aside from the major components, that are required to complete a PV system.
Balance-of-system
A(n) _____ is a business that designs, builds, and installs complete PV systems for particular applications by matching components from various manufacturers.
integrator
____ organizations test products for safety and conformity to standard requirements.
Product listing
____ energy is expected to compose an increasingly larger portion of energy production.
Renewable
A solar ____ is a device designed to absorb solar radiation and convert it to another form, usually heat or electricity.
energy collector
Positioning windows to face ____ allows maximum sunlight and heat into the building.
south
Solar ____ systems are primarily used in residences to heat water and living spaces.
thermal heating
The ____ is the utility’s network of conductors, substations, and equipment that distributes electricity from its central generation point to the consumer.
grid
____ generation is a system in which many smaller power-generating systems create electrical power near the point of consumption.
Distributed
A(n) ____ system is an electrical system consisting of an array of one or more PV modules, conductors, electrical components, and one or more loads.
photovoltaic, PV
____ power systems, most often for single-family homes, are the fastest-growing type of PV system installation.
Supplemental
A(n) ____ may be directly employed by an integrator, or by an electrical contractor who specializes in PV installations.
installer
The ____, or end user, is the owner of the building or structure powered by the PV system.
consumer
A(n) ____ collector is a solar energy collector that enhances solar energy by focusing it on a smaller area through reflective surfaces or lenses.
concentrating
Solar ____ energy systems convert solar radiation into heat energy.
thermal
____ were the first practical applications of PV technology.
satellites
The most common type of PV system is a(n) ____-connected system on a residential roof.
utility
