Overview
Learn how installing solar panels on your home in Hilo, Hawaii can save you money on your electricity bill. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Hilo, we will show you how much you can expect to save with a solar system, how long it will take to break even, and why now is the perfect time to make the switch to solar energy. Say goodbye to high electricity bills and hello to a more sustainable and cost-effective way to power your home.
Hilo Hawaii Weather Trends
Hilo Precipitation
With Hilo receiving 60.65 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is in the 71st percentile across the country and the 83rd percentile in Hawaii. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Hawaii’s average of 38.66 inches, Hilo’s higher precipitation levels make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently.
Hilo’s UV Rating
Having an average UV rating of 5.21, Hilo is in the 83rd percentile in the nation and the 33rd percentile in Hawaii. Comparatively, the national average UV rating is 4.29 while Hawaii’s average is 5.44. These higher UV levels in Hilo make it a prime location for solar panel installation, ensuring optimal energy production.
Hilo’s Cloud Cover
Despite having an average of 60% cloud cover, which is in the 96th percentile in the nation and the 77th percentile in Hawaii, Hilo still benefits from sufficient sunshine for effective solar energy generation. With a mix of clear and cloudy days, Hilo provides a balance that allows for reliable solar power production throughout the year.
Hilo Hawaii Electricity Costs
Residents in Hilo pay about $0.35/kw for electricity, placing it at the top percentile in both the nation and Hawaii. In comparison, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while Hawaii’s average is $0.33/kw. By switching to solar energy, Hilo residents can significantly reduce their electricity bills and save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Hilo Hawaii?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Hilo Hawaii, 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:
- Hilo Hawaii receives more rainfall than the national average, but it still has plenty of sunshine for solar panels to work effectively.
- The UV ratings in Hilo Hawaii are higher than the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Hilo Hawaii is higher than the national average, with varying degrees of cloudiness throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Hilo Hawaii 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, reducing the amount needed from the grid.
- With higher electricity rates in Hilo Hawaii, the savings from using solar power are significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Hilo Hawaii. This means that after 6 years, the savings on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Given the longevity of solar panels, these savings will continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar panels is a wise decision financially and environmentally in this location.
Investing in solar power in Hilo Hawaii
Switching to solar energy in Hilo, Hawaii can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill. With high precipitation levels, abundant sunshine, and substantial electricity costs in Hilo, investing in solar panels is a smart choice. By analyzing the data, we estimate that it would take about 6 years to break even on the initial cost of the solar system. After this point, you will continue to save money on your electricity bills for many years to come, making solar energy a cost-effective and sustainable option for powering your home in Hilo.