Utilities Flashcards
Billing period
The time frame that the bill is for
Customer charge
A charge that every customer pays to be connected to the grid
Distribution charges
Charges for getting power to the customer
Generation charges
Charges to create the power customers use
Fixed rate structure
A rate structure where every kWh is charged at the same price
Tiered rate structure
A rate structure where higher usage results in higher prices
Time of use rate structure
A rate structure where the time electricity is used determines the price.
Levelized billing
A month-to-month option for customers to pay the utility a flat rate and are either entitled to a refund or to settle up at the end.
Regulated vs deregulated markets
In deregulated markets, customers can shop around for their electric supplier.
Overall kWh rate
A calculation of the true price of electricity when distribution and generation charges are considered.
String inverter
Connects to multiple solar panels and can only perform as well as its lowest performing panel. So if a panel is experiencing an obstruction, every other panel connected to that inverter will produce at a diminished capacity.
Micro inverters
Small inverters that are placed on the back of each solar panel. Installing the inverters this way insures that each panel is performing optimally. this method distributes the workload so that the system can have a lower standing energy capacity, making them safer for installers and firefighters.
Power optimizers and a central inverter
Like micro inverters these devices go on the back of each panel. However they don’t convert the energy, but condition it before sending it to the central inverter.
Essential backup
A single battery to power a home during an outage
Whole- home backup
Typically requires multiple batteries, but can back up heavier loads. Eg. Air conditioners
Conduit
Wiring held in metal tubing or conduit, connects all the parts of the system so energy can flow from panels to other system components.
Racking
Secure the panels to the roof
Ac disconnect
Systems will shut down automatically in the event of a shit down.
Main service panel (breaker bow)
Where electricity enters the home.
Net meter
Tracks power given/taken by the electric company
Net metering
The program where the utility credits them for extra power sent back into the grid
Sun hour
A measure of solar radiation from the sun defined as 1000 watts of energy shining on 1 sq meter of surface for 1 hr
Netting period
The timeframe over which net metering credits can be accumulated and used
True up
Remaining credits are cashed out or lost at the end of the netting period.
One-to-one credit
The customer receives full credit for every kWh of overproduction.
Monetary credit
The kWhs sent to the grid equals a specific monetary amount which varies by utility. In some utilities, this credit counts against electricity taken from the grid at other times.
Full net metering
Allows customers to balance kWh consumed from the utility with solar produced by their panels throughout the year.
Credit
Value of solar produced kWh = value of utility produced kWh
