Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Houston, DE: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Houston, DE at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.2/10 0.3/10 0.1/10 9.9/10 5.7/10
Not Bad 61% daily 8 inches monthly 6.6 on average 0.12/kw

Overview

Are you a resident of Houston, Delaware considering making the switch to solar energy? Our article breaks down the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home, based on specific weather data and electricity costs in your area. By analyzing the average precipitation, UV rating, cloud cover, and electricity rates over a year, we provide a clear estimate of how long it will take for you to break even on your investment in a solar system. Discover how going solar can not only benefit the environment but also save you money in the long run.

Houston Delaware Weather Trends

Houston Precipitation

With Houston, Delaware receiving 97.72 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the region experiences a significant amount of rainfall. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Delaware’s average of 62.92 inches, Houston’s higher level of precipitation can provide ample opportunities for solar panel energy generation.

Houston’s UV Rating

Houston, Delaware boasts an average UV rating of 6.55, placing it in the 99th percentile in the nation and the 100th percentile in the state. With higher levels of UV radiation compared to the national average of 4.29 and Delaware’s average of 4.34, Houston residents have a great advantage when it comes to harnessing solar energy for their homes.

Houston’s Cloud Cover

Recording an average of 61% cloud cover in the last year, Houston, Delaware is in the 97th percentile in the nation and the 98th percentile in the state. Despite having a higher cloud cover compared to the national average of 44.46% and Delaware’s average of 44.66%, Houston’s varying cloud cover throughout the year can still provide substantial sunlight for solar panel efficiency.

Houston Delaware Electricity Costs

With an electricity cost of $0.12/kw, Houston residents have a favorable rate that puts them below the national average of $0.13/kw. Comparatively, this places Houston in the 57th percentile in the nation and the 22nd percentile in Delaware. By investing in solar panels, homeowners can save even more on their electricity bills while contributing to a greener environment.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Houston Delaware?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Houston Delaware, 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:

  • Houston Delaware receives significantly more precipitation than the national average, which could potentially impact solar panel efficiency.
  • The UV ratings in Houston are higher than the national average, which is great for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Houston Delaware is higher than the national average, with a good amount of variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Houston Delaware pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which can affect the savings from using solar power.

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 need to purchase as much from the grid.
  • With lower electricity rates in Houston Delaware, the savings may not be as substantial as in other areas.

After analyzing the numbers, it looks like it would take around 8 to 10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Houston Delaware. This means that after that timeframe, the money saved on electricity bills will start to make up for the investment. Considering that solar panels last for a long time, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for many years beyond the break-even point. It’s a wise financial decision that also benefits the environment!

Investing in solar power in Houston Delaware

Switching to solar energy in Houston, Delaware can be a beneficial investment for residents. With higher levels of precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover, there are ample opportunities for solar energy generation. Additionally, the favorable electricity costs in the area mean that homeowners can expect to break even on their initial investment in solar panels within 8 to 10 years. Not only will this save money in the long run, but it also contributes to a greener environment. Making the switch to solar power in Houston, Delaware is a wise decision for both your wallet and the planet.