Overview
If you’re considering making the switch to solar energy in Falmouth, Maine, you’ll be happy to know that the financial benefits are worth the investment. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how installing solar panels on your home can save you money in the long run. With a breakdown of the cost of a solar system and an estimate of how long it will take to break even, you’ll see just how much you can benefit financially from making the switch to solar energy.
Falmouth Maine Weather Trends
Falmouth Precipitation
With Falmouth, Maine receiving 66.65 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s clear that the area sees its fair share of rain. Compared to the rest of the nation, Falmouth falls in the 83rd percentile, but when looking specifically at Maine, it’s in the 8th percentile. Given that the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches and Maine’s average is 73.85 inches, it’s evident that Falmouth enjoys a moderate amount of rainfall.
Falmouth’s UV Rating
Over the last year, Falmouth, Maine had an average UV rating of 3.3, ranking it in the 11th percentile nationwide and the 79th percentile within Maine. While the national average UV rating stands at 4.29, Maine’s average is 3.29. The area also saw an average max UV rating of 3.44, positioning it in the 17th percentile across the country and the 61st percentile in Maine, higher than the national average of 4.61.
Falmouth’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 53% in Falmouth, Maine, residents experience mostly cloudy skies throughout the year, ranking them in the 82nd percentile nationwide and the 11th percentile in Maine. In comparison, the national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, while Maine’s average is slightly higher at 55.62%. Falmouth averages 76 days with 0-25% cloud cover, 99 days with 25-50% cloud cover, 86 days with 50-75% cloud cover, and 103 days with 75-100% cloud cover annually.
Falmouth Maine Electricity Costs
Residents of Falmouth, Maine pay about $0.16/kw for electricity, which places them in the 95th percentile nationally and the 50th percentile within Maine. While the national average for residential electricity rates is $0.13/kw, Maine’s average matches Falmouth’s at $0.16/kw. By making the switch to solar energy, Falmouth residents can significantly reduce their electricity costs in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Falmouth Maine?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Falmouth Maine, let’s break down the investment in solar panels and see how long it would take to make up the initial cost.
First, let’s look at the weather data:
- Falmouth Maine receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for effective solar panel operation.
- The UV ratings in Falmouth Maine are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Falmouth Maine is slightly higher than the national average, with some variability throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Falmouth Maine pay slightly more for electricity compared to the national average.
With this information, let’s break down the costs:
- A standard solar system of 10kW costs $20,000.
- This system is expected to last between 25 and 30 years.
To find out how long it would take to break even on this investment, we need to calculate the annual savings from using solar power. Here’s how:
- The system generates electricity, reducing the need to purchase as much from the grid.
- With slightly higher electricity rates in Falmouth Maine, the savings are slightly greater than the national average.
After calculations, it appears that it would take around 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond that initial period, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for many years. Investing in solar panels is a wise way to save money and contribute to environmental sustainability!
Investing in solar power in Falmouth Maine
Switching to solar energy in Falmouth, Maine is a smart financial decision. By analyzing the weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, it’s clear that installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant long-term savings. With a detailed breakdown of the costs involved and an estimate of the break-even period, it’s evident that the benefits of making the switch to solar energy far outweigh the initial investment. Not only will you save money on electricity bills, but you’ll also contribute to environmental sustainability. Investing in solar panels is a win-win situation for your wallet and the planet!