Overview
Are you tired of high electricity bills in Durango, Colorado? Discover a smart and cost-effective solution that can help you save money in the long run – installing solar panels on your home! By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Durango, we will show you how much money you can save by switching to solar energy. With the right solar system, you can break even in a reasonable amount of time and start enjoying the financial benefits of harnessing the power of the sun. Read on to find out why going solar is a wise investment for Durango residents.
Durango Colorado Weather Trends
Durango Precipitation
With 23.78 inches of precipitation in the last year, Durango Colorado falls in the 8th percentile in the nation and the 25th percentile in Colorado. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Colorado’s average of 35.53 inches, Durango enjoys a drier climate. This means less rainy days and more sunshine, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently.
Durango’s UV Rating
In the last year, Durango Colorado had an average UV rating of 3.68, placing it in the 28th percentile in the nation and the 35th percentile in Colorado. Although slightly below the national average of 4.29 and Colorado’s average of 4.02, Durango still receives a significant amount of sunlight. With an average max UV rating of 3.98, Durango can benefit from ample sunshine throughout the year, making it a prime location for solar panel installation.
Durango’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 26% cloud cover, Durango Colorado ranks in the 5th percentile in the nation and the 10th percentile in Colorado. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Colorado’s average of 33.65%, Durango experiences relatively clear skies. With a high number of days having low cloud cover percentages, Durango offers optimal conditions for maximizing solar energy production.
Durango Colorado Electricity Costs
Residents in Durango Colorado pay approximately $0.15/kw for electricity, placing the city in the 91st percentile in the nation and the 68th percentile in Colorado. While the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw and Colorado’s average is $0.14/kw, Durango residents have higher electricity costs. By switching to solar energy, you can significantly reduce your electricity bills over time and take advantage of the abundant sunshine Durango offers.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Durango Colorado?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Durango Colorado, 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:
- Durango Colorado receives less precipitation compared to the national average, which is good for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Durango Colorado are slightly lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Durango Colorado is lower than the national average, with a good number of days having low cloud cover.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Durango Colorado pay slightly 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 Durango Colorado’s higher electricity rates, the savings per year are substantial.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 7-8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7-8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate, making the investment worthwhile. Additionally, since solar panels last for 25-30 years, you’ll continue to benefit from those savings for many years to come. It’s not only a wise financial decision but also a sustainable choice for the environment!
Investing in solar power in Durango Colorado
Switching to solar energy in Durango, Colorado is a smart investment that can help you save money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, it is clear that Durango offers ideal conditions for solar panel installation. With lower precipitation, ample sunlight, and clear skies, solar panels can efficiently generate electricity and help you reduce your electricity bills. Considering the initial cost of a solar system and the savings from using solar power, you could break even in approximately 7-8 years. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start accumulating, making the investment worthwhile. Not only is going solar a wise financial decision, but it is also a sustainable choice for the environment. So, if you’re tired of high electricity bills, consider making the switch to solar energy in Durango!