Overview
If you’re a Capitan New Mexico resident looking to save on electricity bills, installing solar panels on your home could be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather data specific to your area, we can show you how much sunlight your home receives, which impacts your potential energy savings. With the cost of a solar system broken down and an estimate of how long it will take to break even, you can see the long-term benefits of making the switch to solar power.
Capitan New Mexico Weather Trends
Capitan Precipitation
Capitan New Mexico received 18.5 inches of precipitation in the last year. This places Capitan in the 5th percentile in the nation and the 81st percentile in New Mexico. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Capitan receives significantly less precipitation. However, with New Mexico’s average at 13.78 inches, Capitan’s rainfall is relatively higher, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation.
Capitan’s UV Rating
Capitan New Mexico had an average UV rating of 4.44 in the last year. This ranks Capitan in the 63rd percentile in the nation and the 42nd percentile in New Mexico. While the national average UV rating is 4.29, and New Mexico’s average is 4.67, Capitan’s UV rating is conducive to solar energy production. With an average max UV rating of 4.75, Capitan’s sunlight exposure is suitable for maximizing the efficiency of solar panels.
Capitan’s Cloud Cover
Capitan New Mexico had an average of 22% cloud cover in the last year, placing it in the 2nd percentile in the nation and the 42nd percentile in New Mexico. Compared to the national average of 44.46% cloud cover, and New Mexico’s average of 22.75%, Capitan experiences relatively clear skies, allowing for consistent solar energy generation. With a high number of days featuring minimal cloud cover, solar panels in Capitan can capture ample sunlight throughout the year.
Capitan New Mexico Electricity Costs
Capitan residents pay about $0.19/kw for electricity, positioning the town in the 97th percentile in the nation and the 95th percentile in New Mexico in terms of pricing. While the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw and New Mexico’s average is $0.15/kw, Capitan’s electricity costs are higher. By switching to solar power, residents can significantly reduce their electricity expenses over time, taking advantage of the abundant sunlight and favorable conditions for solar energy production in Capitan.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Capitan New Mexico?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Capitan New Mexico, 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:
- Capitan New Mexico receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it favorable for solar panel installations.
- The UV ratings in Capitan New Mexico are higher than the national average, which is great for generating solar power efficiently.
- Capitan New Mexico has lower cloud cover compared to the national average, providing more sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Capitan New Mexico pay more for electricity compared to the national average, which makes solar panels a cost-effective alternative.
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 solar system generates electricity, reducing the amount needed from the grid and saving money on electricity bills.
- With higher electricity rates in Capitan New Mexico, the savings from using solar power will be more significant.
After evaluating the data, it is estimated that it would take around 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Capitan New Mexico. This means that after 6 years, the savings on electricity bills will start adding up and paying off the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so you will continue to enjoy savings for many years after breaking even. Investing in solar panels not only saves money but also contributes to environmental sustainability. It’s a wise financial and eco-friendly choice!
Investing in solar power in Capitan New Mexico
Installing solar panels in Capitan New Mexico is a beneficial choice for residents looking to save on electricity bills. With the town experiencing lower precipitation, higher UV ratings, and minimal cloud cover, the conditions are ideal for solar energy generation. In addition, the higher electricity costs in Capitan make solar panels a cost-effective alternative to traditional grid electricity. By investing in solar panels, residents can expect to break even on their initial investment in about 6 years. Not only will this save money in the long run, but it also supports environmental sustainability. Making the switch to solar power in Capitan New Mexico is a wise financial and eco-friendly decision for homeowners.