Archives: Glossary

  • Solar Thermal

    Solar panels that use sunlight to heat water.

  • Solar PV

    Solar photovoltaic panels that generate electricity.

  • Solar Gain

    Heat gained from sunlight entering a building, especially through windows.

  • Smart Meter

    A meter that records energy use and sends readings automatically to the supplier.

  • Service Penetration

    A place where pipes, cables or ducts pass through the building fabric. Poorly sealed penetrations can cause draughts and heat loss.

  • Secondary Glazing

    An additional pane or frame fitted inside an existing window to improve thermal performance, comfort and noise reduction.

  • Seasonal Performance Factor

    A measure of heat pump performance over time, comparing useful heat output to electricity input.

  • Seasonal Coefficient of Performance

    A seasonal measure of heat pump efficiency over a period of heating operation.

  • SAP

    Standard Assessment Procedure. The UK method for assessing the energy performance of new dwellings.

  • R-Value

    A measure of thermal resistance. Higher R-values mean better resistance to heat flow.