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Solar and Electricity Data for Exeter, ME: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Exeter, ME at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
2.3/10 0.7/10 1/10 0.5/10 9.5/10
OK 57% daily 6 inches monthly 3.1 on average 0.16/kw

Overview

Switching to solar power in Exeter, Maine can lead to significant financial benefits for homeowners. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we can show how installing solar panels can result in long-term savings. With a breakdown of the initial cost of a solar system and an estimate of the payback period, residents can see the rewards of making the switch to clean and renewable energy.

Exeter Maine Weather Trends

Exeter Precipitation

With 71.46 inches of precipitation in the last year, Exeter, Maine is in the 90th percentile in the nation and the 28th percentile in Maine. This could result in increased energy output from solar panels due to clean rain washing away any dust, maximizing efficiency.

Exeter’s UV Rating

Exeter Maine had an average UV rating of 3.11, placing it in the 5th percentile in the nation and the 29th percentile in Maine. With the abundance of sunlight, solar panels in Exeter can generate a significant amount of energy, contributing to long-term savings on electricity bills.

Exeter’s Cloud Cover

Exeter Maine had an average of 57% cloud cover in the last year, positioning it in the 93rd percentile in the nation and the 76th percentile in Maine. Despite some cloudy days, solar panels can still generate electricity, potentially reducing monthly energy costs for residents.

Exeter Maine Electricity Costs

Exeter Maine residents pay about $0.16/kw for electricity, which is in the 95th percentile in the nation and the 63rd percentile in Maine. By switching to solar power, homeowners can lock in lower electricity costs, saving money in the long run while also reducing their carbon footprint.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Exeter Maine?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Exeter Maine, 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:

  • Exeter Maine receives more precipitation compared to the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
  • The UV ratings in Exeter Maine are slightly below the national average, but they are still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Exeter Maine is higher than the national average, with varying percentages throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Exeter Maine 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, which means less electricity needs to be purchased from the grid.
  • Given Exeter Maine’s higher electricity rates, the savings will be more significant.

After analyzing the data, it seems that it would take around 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels last for many years, the savings will continue long after the initial investment is recouped. Investing in solar panels is not only a financially sound decision but also a way to contribute to environmental preservation.

Investing in solar power in Exeter Maine

Switching to solar power in Exeter, Maine can lead to significant financial benefits for homeowners, with the possibility of long-term savings on electricity bills. By analyzing weather trends and electricity costs, residents can see the potential rewards of installing solar panels. Despite the initial cost, the investment is expected to pay off in about 5 years, with savings accumulating over the lifespan of the solar system. Not only is going solar a smart financial choice, but it also contributes to environmental preservation by using clean and renewable energy sources.