Overview
This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in Tucson, Arizona can help you save money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Tucson, we will demonstrate the financial benefits of switching to solar power. You will learn about the upfront costs of a solar system and how quickly you can break even on your investment. Let’s explore how solar panels can be a wise financial decision for Tucson residents.
Tucson Arizona Weather Trends
Tucson Precipitation
With only 12.05 inches of precipitation in the last year, Tucson is in the 2nd percentile in the nation and the 62nd percentile in Arizona. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Tucson’s dry weather makes it an ideal location for harnessing solar power.
Tucson’s UV Rating
Having an average UV rating of 6.13 places Tucson in the 97th percentile in the nation and the 75th percentile in Arizona. With an average max UV rating of 6.89, Tucson is in the 91st percentile nationally and the 77th percentile in Arizona. The high UV ratings in Tucson make it a prime spot for generating solar energy efficiently.
Tucson’s Cloud Cover
Recording an average of 17% cloud cover in the last year, Tucson is in the 1st percentile in the nation and the 31st percentile in Arizona. With the national average for cloud cover at 44.46% and Arizona’s average at 19.26%, Tucson’s clear skies make it an excellent location for solar panel installation.
Tucson Arizona Electricity Costs
Residents in Tucson pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, ranking it in the 61st percentile in the nation and the 52nd percentile in Arizona. While the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, Tucson’s slightly lower costs make switching to solar power an even more attractive financial option.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Tucson Arizona?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Tucson Arizona, 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:
- Tucson Arizona receives less rainfall compared to the national average, which is great for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Tucson Arizona are higher than the national average, making it an ideal location for solar power generation.
- Cloud cover in Tucson Arizona is lower than the national average, with more clear days for solar panels to generate electricity.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Tucson Arizona pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which can be a cost-saving advantage when using solar power.
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 amount needed from the grid and saving money on electricity bills.
- With Tucson Arizona’s lower electricity rates, the savings over time can add up significantly.
After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the savings on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. And since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for many years to come. It’s a smart investment for both your wallet and the environment!
Investing in solar power in Tucson Arizona
In conclusion, installing solar panels on your home in Tucson, Arizona can be a smart financial decision. The city’s low precipitation, high UV ratings, and clear skies make it an ideal location for solar power generation. With electricity costs slightly below the national average, residents can expect to break even on their investment in solar panels in around 6-7 years. After that, the savings on electricity bills will continue to accumulate, providing both financial benefits and environmental advantages for many years to come.