Definitions

1. Net metering
Since there may be times when the amount of energy produced by your PV system exceeds your usage (e.g., during the day when you're aware from home and the sun is at its maximum), "net metering" can be used to avoid investing in expensive batteries to store that excess. The New Jersey state utility companies have agreed to install special meters and for you as a electrical "generator" (Yes, that's right – you'll be a miniature power plant) to send any excess energy back to them using the existing grid wiring. The special meters are employed because they will literally spin backwards during those periods of time when you are a net producer (as opposed to a net consumer) of electricity. Since the utility companies compute their electric bills based on what the meters "read" each month, those readings (and hence, your electric bill) will be reduced by the amount the meter spins backwards. Conceivably, it's possible for the utility company to owe you money at the end of the year, if the annual amount you generate exceeds what you've used.

Because your solar array is connected (through the inverter and distribution panel) into the utility company's grid, your system will immediately stop "back-feeding" the grid whenever it goes down. This is for the protection of the utility company workers who may be working on the lines and need to make the assumption that any power-generating devices (like your PV system) have been disabled. The inverter serves this function, immediately shutting down power to your building whenever it senses a grid outage, and resuming when it determines the grid is back "up". This is why PV systems (unless equipped with batteries) should not be depended on for backup power during grid outages.

2. Photovoltaic (PV)
From "photo" (Greek, for "light") and "voltaic" (electricity created through chemical reaction)

3. New Jersey Clean Energy Program
The New Jersey utility company-administered program which, through the use of rebates and education, promotes the use of renewable energy like solar, wind and geothermal.

4. Interconnection
Refers to the connection of your PV system to the utility company grid in order to perform net metering. An "Interconnection Agreement" is signed by the property owner and an inspection by the utility company is required before this connection can be made. The agreement contains terms and conditions, technical requirements, safety testing requirements, etc. and is part of the "package" transmitted under the NJ Clean Energy Program.