Green Energy Glossary
Plain English explanations of key terms for solar panels, heat pumps, EV chargers, grants, and more.
ASHP (Air Source Heat Pump)
A heating system that extracts heat from the outside air to warm your home and hot water. Works efficiently even in temperatures as low as -15C. Eligible for the BUS grant of up to 7,500.
COP (Coefficient of Performance)
A measure of heat pump efficiency. A COP of 3.0 means for every 1 kWh of electricity used, the heat pump produces 3 kWh of heat. Higher is better - typical values range from 2.5 to 4.5.
GSHP (Ground Source Heat Pump)
A heating system that extracts heat from the ground via buried pipes (ground loops). More efficient than air source but requires more space and higher installation costs.
SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance)
The average COP of a heat pump across the entire heating season. More realistic than COP alone as it accounts for varying outdoor temperatures throughout the year.
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