For purposes of this subchapter, the following words, terms, and phrases shall be defined as follows.
ACCESSORY GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A ground-mounted solar energy system with the purpose primarily of generating electricity for the principal use on the site.
BUILDING-INTEGRATED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system that is an integral part of a primary or accessory building or structure (rather than a separate mechanical device), replacing or substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building or structure. Building-integrated systems include, but are not limited to, photovoltaic or hot water solar energy systems that are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and awnings. BUILDING-INTEGRATED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS are allowed as a permitted accessory building or structure to any residence or business in any zoning district.
GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system mounted on support posts, like a rack or pole that are attached to or rest on the ground.
MAXIMUM TILT. The maximum angle of a solar array (i.e., most vertical position) for capturing solar radiation as compared to the horizon line.
MINIMUM TILT. The minimal angle of a solar array (i.e., most horizontal position) for capturing solar radiation as compared to the horizon line.
NON-PARTICIPATING LOT(S). One or more lots for which there is not a signed lease or easement for development of a principal-use SES associated with the applicant project.
PARTICIPATING LOT(S). One or more lots under a signed lease or easement for development of a principal-use SES associated with the applicant project.
PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM. A semiconductor material that generates electricity from sunlight.
PRINCIPAL-USE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A commercial, ground-mounted solar energy system that converts sunlight into electricity for the primary purpose of off-site use through the electrical grid or export to the wholesale market. This includes SMALL SCALE systems (SES generating up
to and including 2 MW DC) and LARGE SCALE systems (SES generating more than 2 MW DC).
REPOWERING. Reconfiguring, renovating, or replacing an SES to maintain or increase the power rating of the SES within the existing project footprint.
RESIDENTIAL SOLAR ARRAY. A small electricity generating system consisting of solar panels and associated equipment sized primarily to meet the needs of the on-site consumers for the home or small business on whose property they are constructed. While not intended to distribute electricity to other consumers as a primary purpose they may be inter-connected to a public utility.
ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. A solar energy system mounted on racking that is attached to or ballasted on the roof of a building or structure. This definition includes solar carport systems which are affixed on the roof of an existing carport structure.
SOLAR ARRAY. A photovoltaic panel, solar thermal collector, or collection of panels or collectors in a solar energy system that collects solar radiation.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (SES). A photovoltaic system or solar thermal system for generating and/or storing electricity or heat, including all above and below ground equipment or components required for the system to operate properly and to be secured to a roof surface or the ground. This includes any necessary operations and maintenance building(s), but does not include any temporary construction offices, substation(s) or other transmission facilities between the SES and the point of interconnection to the electric grid. Passive solar energy systems are included in this definition but not to the extent that they fulfill other functions such as structural and recreational.
(Ord. O-253, passed 5-8-2023, effective 5-18-2023)