Definition

Noun: A solar panel is an electrical device that converts sunlight into electricity. It is constructed from a large collection of individual solar cells connected together and mounted in a supporting frame.

Usage

A solar panel is used to capture solar energy for generating electrical power. It is typically installed on rooftops, in fields, or on spacecraft. * The house generates its own electricity from solar panels on the roof. * The satellite's solar panels deploy after launch to power its systems. * Installing solar panels can reduce your dependence on the traditional power grid.

Advanced Usage

• Solar panel array: Refers to multiple solar panels connected together to form a larger power-generating system.
  • The farm has a large solar panel array that feeds energy back to the utility company.
• Solar panel efficiency: Describes how effectively a panel converts sunlight into usable electricity.
  • Newer models boast higher solar panel efficiency.

Variants and Related Words

• Photovoltaic (PV) panel: A more technical term for a solar panel, emphasizing the photovoltaic effect that creates electricity.
• Solar module: Another term for a solar panel, often used interchangeably in technical contexts.
• Solar cell: The basic individual unit that makes up a solar panel. A panel contains many connected solar cells.

Synonyms

• PV panel
• Solar module
• Photovoltaic array (for a group of panels)

Related Phrases

• Solar power: The electricity produced by solar panels.
  • The building runs on solar power.
• Solar energy: The radiant energy from the sun that panels capture.
  • They are investing in solar energy.

Noun

1. electrical device consisting of a large array of connected solar cells