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Solar and Electricity Data for Big Bend, CA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Big Bend, CA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
6.5/10 7.4/10 6.4/10 9.1/10 9.6/10
Pretty Good 40% daily 4 inches monthly 5.7 on average 0.17/kw

Overview

If you live in Big Bend, California, consider the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home. By analyzing weather data and electricity cost in the area, we will show you how you can save money in the long run. With the potential to break even on your investment within a certain timeframe, going solar could be a wise decision for both your wallet and the environment.

Big Bend California Weather Trends

Big Bend Precipitation

With Big Bend California receiving 43.96 inches of precipitation last year, it falls in the 36th percentile in the nation and the 78th percentile in California. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and California’s average of 31.54 inches, Big Bend’s slightly lower precipitation levels can be beneficial for solar panel efficiency.

Big Bend’s UV Rating

Big Bend California boasted an average UV rating of 5.69, ranking it in the 91st percentile nationally and the 93rd percentile among California cities. In comparison, the national average UV rating is 4.29, while California’s average stands at 4.76. With an average max UV rating of 6.25, Big Bend also shines brightly in the 82nd percentile nationally and 87th percentile statewide.

Big Bend’s Cloud Cover

During the last year, Big Bend California experienced an average of 40% cloud cover, placing it in the 26th percentile nationwide and the 85th percentile within California. Comparing this to the national average of 44.46% and California’s average of 31.53%, the area enjoys more sunlight, making it an ideal location for solar energy production. With 145 days of minimal cloud cover, residents can maximize their solar panel efficiency.

Big Bend California Electricity Costs

Residents in Big Bend California pay approximately $0.17/kw for electricity, ranking the area in the 96th percentile nationally and the 31st percentile in California. When comparing this to the national average of $0.13/kw and California’s average of $0.21/kw, it’s evident that Big Bend offers competitive electricity rates, making the switch to solar a financially savvy choice.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Big Bend California?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Big Bend California, 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:

  • Big Bend California receives slightly less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar energy production.
  • The UV ratings in Big Bend California are higher than the national average, making it a great place for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Big Bend California is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Big Bend California pay 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, which means we don’t need to buy as much from the grid.
  • With Big Bend California’s higher electricity rates, the savings are even greater.

After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. That means, after 8 years, the money you save on electricity bills will start to add up and pay off the investment. And remember, solar panels last for a long time, so after that initial period, you’ll be enjoying those savings for many years to come. It’s a smart way to save money and help the environment at the same time!

Investing in solar power in Big Bend California

By examining the weather trends in Big Bend, California, as well as the electricity costs in the area, it is clear that investing in solar panels can be financially beneficial. With lower precipitation levels, higher UV ratings, and less cloud cover, Big Bend provides an ideal environment for solar energy production. Additionally, with competitive electricity rates, residents can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 8 years. This means that after this initial period, the savings from lower electricity bills will continue to accumulate, making solar panels a smart and sustainable choice for both your finances and the environment.