§ 180-4. Definitions.

For the purpose of this article, the terms used shall be defined as follows:

BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC OR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

A combination of photovoltaic building components integrated into any building envelope system such as vertical facades including glass and other facade material, semitransparent skylight systems, roofing materials, and shading over windows.

GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

A solar energy system attached to a pole or other mounting system that is anchored to the ground and detached from any other structure for the primary purpose of producing electricity. Panel surface area is included in total lot coverage.

LARGE-SCALE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

A solar energy system of more than 2,000 square feet that produces energy for use on-site consumption or for off-site sale or both.

NET METERING

Excess (unused) power turns your meter backward and travels back into the grid. The utility company issues credit to property owner for power produced.

ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

A solar panel system located on, or integrated into, the roof of any legally permitted building or structure including pergolas for the purpose of producing electricity for on-site or off-site consumption. These systems are permitted as accessory use when attached to a lawfully permitted principal or accessory structure in all zoning districts.

SCALES OF SOLAR POWER

A. 

Small scale/residential: Up to 2,000 square feet. Electricity is produced primarily for on-site use.

B. 

Large scale: Over 2,000 square feet.

(1) 

Commercial/office: electricity is primarily used on site.

(2) 

Industrial/factory: electricity is primarily used on site.

(3) 

Community solar: expands access to solar for customers who cannot or do not wish to site their own system, and is intended to allow residents and businesses to access renewable solar energy.

(4) 

Utility grade: electricity is primarily for use off site or for sale back to the grid.

SMALL-SCALE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

A solar energy system of up to and including 2,000 square feet that is for the primary purpose of producing electricity for on-site consumption. Panel surface area is included in total lot coverage.

SOLAR ENERGY EQUIPMENT

Electrical energy storage devices, material, hardware, inverters, or conduit and devices associated with the production of electrical energy.

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

An electrical generating system composed of a combination of both solar panels and solar energy equipment.

SOLAR PANEL

A photovoltaic device capable of collecting and converting solar energy into electrical energy.