Overview
In Durham, New Hampshire, investing in solar panels for your home can lead to significant financial savings over time. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can estimate how quickly you will break even on the cost of installing solar panels. With the average max UV rating, average UV rating, percentage of cloud cover, and precipitation levels taken into account, it is clear that Durham’s climate is conducive to harnessing solar energy effectively. Learn how going solar can benefit both your wallet and the environment in the long run.
Durham New Hampshire Weather Trends
Durham Precipitation
With Durham, New Hampshire receiving 70.03 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area experiences a significant amount of rainfall. However, compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Durham falls in the 88th percentile, indicating higher levels of precipitation. In comparison to the rest of New Hampshire, Durham ranks in the 33rd percentile, showcasing the unique weather patterns of the area. Despite the higher levels of precipitation, solar panels can still be a beneficial investment in Durham.
Durham’s UV Rating
For the past year, Durham, New Hampshire had an average UV rating of 3.49, placing it in the 18th percentile nationwide. However, when compared to the rest of New Hampshire, Durham is in the 82nd percentile, suggesting more sunlight exposure in the area. While the national average for UV rating is 4.29, and New Hampshire’s average is 3.25, Durham’s average max UV rating of 3.69 further indicates the potential for harnessing solar energy effectively in the region.
Durham’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 51% cloud cover in the last year, Durham, New Hampshire falls in the 76th percentile nationwide. Comparatively, the area ranks in the 4th percentile within the state, showcasing lower cloud cover levels than the New Hampshire average of 55.38%. Despite having varying cloud cover throughout the year, Durham had several days with optimal sunlight exposure, making it an ideal location for installing solar panels and maximizing energy production.
Durham New Hampshire Electricity Costs
Durham residents pay approximately $0.19/kw for electricity, placing the area in the 97th percentile nationally and the 88th percentile within New Hampshire. While this cost is higher than the national average of $0.13/kw, it aligns with the state average of $0.19/kw. By investing in solar panels, Durham residents can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources, leading to long-term financial savings and environmental benefits.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Durham New Hampshire?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Durham, New Hampshire, 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:
- Durham, New Hampshire receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sun for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Durham, New Hampshire are slightly lower compared to the national average, but they are still adequate for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Durham, New Hampshire is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Durham, New Hampshire 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 Durham, New Hampshire, the savings from solar power are significant.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, you will continue to benefit from these savings for many years to come. Investing in solar power is a smart way to save money and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Investing in solar power in Durham New Hampshire
Investing in solar panels in Durham, New Hampshire is a wise decision that can lead to significant financial savings over time. With the area’s conducive climate for harnessing solar energy effectively, and despite higher levels of precipitation and varying cloud cover, solar panels remain a beneficial investment option. By reducing reliance on traditional electricity sources and considering the higher electricity costs in Durham, residents can expect to break even on their solar panel installation in approximately 5 years. This initial investment will then result in long-term savings and environmental benefits for years to come. Choosing solar power is not only a smart financial choice but also a sustainable one for both your wallet and the environment.