[RE-wrenches] module / panel

[David Brearley]

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=


On 2/8/11 5:19 PM, "Michael Welch" <michael.welch at 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.
>> benn at daystarsolar.ca
>> 780-906-7807 
>> HAVE A SUNNY DAY
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
> 
> List Address: RE-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
> 
> Options & settings:
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
> 
> List-Archive: 
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
> 
> List rules & etiquette:
> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm
> 
> Check out participant bios:
> www.members.re-wrenches.org
> 

David Brearley, Senior Technical Editor
SolarPro magazine 
NABCEP Certified PV Installer 
david.brearley at solarprofessional.com
Direct: 541.261.6545
Fax:  541.512.0343

Visit our Web site at solarprofessional.com

(Sample copy available for download at: solarprofessional.com/sample)