(A) For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
GROUND MOUNT SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system that is directly installed into the ground and is not attached or affixed to an existing structure.
NET METERING. A billing arrangement that allows solar customers to get credit for excess electricity that they generate and deliver back to the grid so that they only pay for their net electricity usage at the end of the month.
PERSONAL SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (PSES). Any device or combination of devices or elements which rely upon direct sunlight as an energy source including but not limited to any substance or device which collects sunlight for generating electricity for use on-site. Energy output may be delivered to a power grid to offset the cost of energy on-site. However, PSESs with an aggregate collection and/or focusing area of no more than 25% of the square feet of the subject site are exempt from this subchapter.
SOLAR ENERGY. Radiant energy received from the sun that can be collected in the form of heat or light by a solar collector.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (SES). The components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into electric or thermal energy suitable for use. The area of the system includes all the land inside the perimeter of the system, which extends to any fencing.
SOLAR FARM ENERGY SYSTEM (SFES). A commercial facility, on a parcel(s) of five acres or more that converts sunlight to electricity, whether by photovoltaics, concentrating solar thermal devices, or various experimental technologies for on-site or off-site use with the primary purpose of selling wholesale or retail generated electricity.
SOLAR FARM ENERGY SYSTEM PROJECT AREA. An SFES project area may be comprised of a single parcel of land or two or more contiguous parcels of land providing that the total area of an SFES project area consists of five acres of land or more.
SOLAR PANEL. A device for the direct conversion of solar energy into electricity.
STRUCTURE MOUNT SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system in which solar panels are mounted on top of a roof structure as either a flush mounted system or as modules fixed to frames which can be tilted toward the south at an optical angle.
(B) All other definitions set forth in § 162.006 of this code shall apply when applicable and to the extent that they are not inconsistent with the definitions contained in this section.
(Ord. 8266-2018, passed 10-15-18)