Overview
In Custer, Washington, installing solar panels on your home can be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can estimate the cost of a solar system and calculate how long it will take to break even. With ample sunlight, low precipitation, and minimal cloud cover, Custer residents can see significant savings on their monthly electricity bills by making the switch to solar power.
Custer Washington Weather Trends
Custer Precipitation
With an annual precipitation of 49.04 inches, Custer, Washington, ranks in the 46th percentile nationwide and the 55th percentile within the state. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is slightly higher at 50.61 inches, while Washington’s average is 45.64 inches. Despite slightly above-average precipitation levels in Custer, the overall benefits of installing solar panels remain significant.
Custer’s UV Rating
Custer, Washington, boasts an average UV rating of 3.3, placing it in the 11th percentile nationally and the 17th percentile within Washington. In comparison, the national average for UV rating stands at 4.29, with Washington’s average slightly lower at 3.64. Additionally, Custer records an average max UV rating of 3.49, positioning it in the 18th percentile nationwide and the 20th percentile in Washington. The ample sunlight in Custer makes it an ideal location for solar panel installation.
Custer’s Cloud Cover
Despite having an average cloud cover of 57%, which is higher than the national and state averages of 44.46% and 49.1%, respectively, Custer, Washington, experiences a considerable number of days with varying cloud cover. The distribution of cloud cover throughout the year provides sufficient sunlight for solar panels to generate electricity efficiently. With 75 days of minimal cloud cover and 139 days with maximum cloud cover, Custer still offers ample opportunities for solar energy production.
Custer Washington Electricity Costs
Residents of Custer, Washington, pay around $0.11/kw for electricity, placing them in the 25th percentile nationally and the 87th percentile within Washington. While the national average for residential electricity is slightly higher at $0.13/kw, Washington’s average cost is $0.1/kw. With lower-than-average electricity costs and favorable environmental conditions, installing solar panels in Custer can lead to substantial long-term savings and reduced environmental impact.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Custer Washington?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Custer Washington, 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:
- Custer Washington receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Custer are lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power effectively.
- Cloud cover in Custer Washington is higher than the national average, with a significant number of days having between 75% to 100% cloud cover.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Custer Washington pay slightly lower rates for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.11/kw.
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, especially with lower electricity rates in Custer Washington.
- Despite higher cloud cover, the system can still generate significant savings over time.
After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 7-8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Custer Washington. This means that after 7-8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to add up and pay off the investment. 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 reduce your carbon footprint!
Investing in solar power in Custer Washington
Installing solar panels in Custer, Washington can be a wise financial decision due to favorable weather conditions and lower-than-average electricity costs. With ample sunlight, slightly above-average precipitation, and a considerable number of sunny days despite higher cloud cover, Custer is an ideal location for solar energy production. By analyzing the costs and benefits, it is estimated that it would take around 7-8 years to break even on the initial investment for solar panels in Custer. This long-term savings opportunity not only benefits homeowners financially but also contributes to reducing environmental impact in the community. Making the switch to solar power in Custer, Washington can lead to significant savings and a greener future.