If you work in solar, chances are you’ve heard “panel” and “module” used interchangeably. One customer says they need a dozen panels. A supplier quotes pricing per module. So, which is it…and does it even matter?
Let’s break down the terminology and what it really means in today’s solar industry.
“Module” vs. “Panel”: The Technical Truth
From a technical perspective, “solar module” is the correct term for the product you’re installing. A module is a single unit composed of interconnected photovoltaic (PV) cells, protected by a frame and glass, and designed to generate DC electricity.
This is the language used by international standards organizations like IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Certifications such as IEC 61215 and UL 61730 all refer to “PV modules,” not panels.
So, if you’re reading spec sheets, engineering documents, or building permit applications, expect to see “module.” That’s the industry standard.
So What’s a Solar Panel?
Here’s where it gets interesting: in the field and in marketing, “solar panel” is used almost everywhere—by homeowners, installers, sales teams, and even some manufacturers. If you walk through a trade show or scroll through a solar company’s website, you’ll see “panel” used frequently.
In everyday conversation, panel has become the go-to term. And in most cases, it refers to the same thing: a single PV module.
There was once a time when “panel” could refer to a group of modules or an assembled section of a solar system. But in the modern solar PV world, that distinction has largely disappeared.
What Should You Use?
That depends on who you’re talking to.
- Use “module” when dealing with specs, procurement, engineering, utility interconnection, and permitting. Using “module” in professional documentation helps avoid misinterpretation and underscores your technical accuracy.
- Use “panel” when talking with homeowners, writing ad copy, or simplifying things for a general audience.
At Mission Solar Energy, our products are officially classified as PV modules, but we understand that “solar panel” is often more familiar to the people installing, selling, or buying them.
Final Takeaway
There’s no need to correct a customer who says they’re looking for panels. But as a solar professional, knowing the correct term (and when to use it) helps ensure accuracy and credibility, especially in technical conversations.
Whether you call it a panel or a module, what really matters is that it’s built to perform—and Mission Solar’s are engineered for the real world.
Need product specs, certifications, or clarification for your next project? We’re here to help.