Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Damascus, MD: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Damascus, MD at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.3/10 5.2/10 4.2/10 4.9/10 2.3/10
Not Bad 44% daily 5 inches monthly 4.1 on average 0.11/kw

Overview

In Damascus, Maryland, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial savings in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs over the course of a year, we have determined that the average homeowner can expect to break even on their investment in a solar system in approximately X years. This article will provide you with all the information you need to make a well-informed decision about going solar in Damascus.

Damascus Maryland Weather Trends

Damascus Precipitation

With an average of 54.52 inches of precipitation in the last year, Damascus, Maryland falls in the 58th percentile nationwide and the 28th percentile in the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Damascus experiences slightly more rainfall. However, when looking at Maryland as a whole with an average of 56.5 inches, the area sees slightly less precipitation.

Damascus’s UV Rating

Having an average UV rating of 4.08 places Damascus in the 49th percentile across the country and the 16th percentile within Maryland. While the national average UV rating stands at 4.29, Maryland’s average is 4.26. Additionally, Damascus has an average max UV rating of 4.44, which places it in the 43rd percentile nationally and the 28th percentile within the state. This means that despite not having extremely high UV levels, there is still ample sunlight for solar energy production.

Damascus’s Cloud Cover

With an average of 44% cloud cover, Damascus ranks in the 48th percentile nationwide and the 57th percentile in Maryland. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 43.89%, the area experiences moderate cloud cover. Additionally, having 117 days with minimal cloud cover and a good number of days with varying cloud cover percentages allows for more consistent solar energy generation throughout the year.

Damascus Maryland Electricity Costs

Residents in Damascus pay around $0.11 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, placing them in the 23rd percentile nationally and the 13th percentile within Maryland. While the national average for residential electricity costs is $0.13/kw, Maryland’s average aligns closely with the national rate at $0.13/kw. With relatively lower electricity costs compared to the rest of the country and the state, transitioning to solar power in Damascus can lead to significant long-term savings on energy bills.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Damascus Maryland?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Damascus, Maryland, 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:

  • Damascus, Maryland receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in Damascus are slightly below the national average, but they are still good for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Damascus is similar to the national average, with variability throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Damascus, Maryland pay slightly less 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 and saving money.
  • With slightly lower electricity rates in Damascus, the savings are still significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the payback period. Investing in solar energy is a wise choice to save money and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Investing in solar power in Damascus Maryland

Overall, installing solar panels in Damascus, Maryland can result in substantial financial benefits over time. By considering the weather conditions and electricity costs in the area, it is estimated that homeowners can expect to recoup their investment in a solar system in approximately 5-6 years. With lower-than-average electricity rates and sufficient sunlight for energy generation, transitioning to solar power not only leads to long-term savings but also contributes to a greener environment. Making the decision to go solar in Damascus can prove to be a wise and cost-effective choice for residents in the area.