For purposes of this subchapter the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
BUILDING INTEGRATED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system that is an integral part of a principal or accessory building, replacing or substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building. BUILDING INTEGRATED SYSTEMS include, but are not limited to, photovoltaic or hot water solar energy systems that are contained within or substitute for roofing materials, windows, skylights, awnings and shade devices.
GROUND MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A freestanding solar system mounted directly to the ground using stabilizers rather than being mounted on a building.
PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system that captures solar light or heat without transforming it to another form of energy or transferring the energy via a heat exchanger.
PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM. An active solar energy system that concerts solar energy directly into electricity.
ROOF OR BUILDING MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. Solar energy system (panels) that are mounted to the roof or building using brackets, stands or other apparatus.
SOLAR COLLECTOR. A device, structure or a part of a device or structure for which the primary purpose is to capture sunlight and transform it into thermal, mechanical, chemical or electrical energy.
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. A device, array of devices, or structural design feature that collects or stores solar energy and transforms solar energy into another form of energy or transfers heat from a collector to another medium using mechanical, electrical, thermal or chemical means.
(Ord. 457, passed 10-16-2018)