Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Phoenix, AZ: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Phoenix, AZ at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
7.5/10 10/10 9.9/10 9.9/10 7.7/10
Excellent 16% daily 1 inches monthly 6.7 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

In Phoenix Arizona, installing solar panels on your home can be a smart financial decision. With the abundant sunshine and low average percentage of cloud cover throughout the year, you can generate significant savings on your electricity bill. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we estimate that the cost of a solar system can be recouped within a reasonable timeframe, allowing you to enjoy long-term financial benefits while also reducing your environmental impact.

Phoenix Arizona Weather Trends

Phoenix Precipitation

With only 6.64 inches of precipitation in the last year, Phoenix Arizona is in the 1st percentile in the nation and the 18th percentile in Arizona. This means that compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Phoenix receives significantly less rainfall. In comparison to Arizona’s average of 12 inches, Phoenix still stands out as a drier area.

Phoenix’s UV Rating

Phoenix Arizona boasts an impressive average UV rating of 6.68, placing it in the 99th percentile in both the nation and the state. When compared to the national average of 4.29 and Arizona’s average of 5.41, it’s clear that Phoenix receives higher levels of UV radiation. With an average max UV rating of 7.41, Phoenix is even more exceptional, outshining the national and state averages.

Phoenix’s Cloud Cover

Over the past year, Phoenix Arizona had an average of 16% cloud cover, ranking it in the 0th percentile nationally and the 12th percentile in Arizona. This low cloud cover percentage, compared to the national average of 44.46% and Arizona’s average of 19.26%, means that Phoenix enjoys clearer skies for a significant portion of the year. With numerous days of minimal cloud cover, residents in Phoenix can benefit from ample sunlight.

Phoenix Arizona Electricity Costs

Phoenix residents pay approximately $0.13/kw for electricity, placing them in the 77th percentile nationally and within Arizona. While this cost aligns with the national average, it still presents an opportunity for savings by switching to solar energy. By investing in solar panels, Phoenix residents can reduce their electricity bills and take advantage of the abundant sunshine to generate clean and sustainable energy for their homes.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Phoenix Arizona?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Phoenix, Arizona, 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:

  • Phoenix receives less precipitation than the national average, making it an ideal location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Phoenix are higher than the national average, perfect for generating solar power efficiently.
  • Cloud cover in Phoenix is below the national average, offering more sunny days for solar energy generation.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Phoenix pay the national average for electricity, which can help in saving money with solar panels.

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:

  • The system generates electricity, reducing the need to purchase electricity from the grid.
  • Given Phoenix’s average electricity rates, the savings from using solar power can add up over time.

After analyzing the data, it is estimated that it would take around 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate, making the investment worthwhile. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the initial payback period. Additionally, by using solar energy, not only will you be saving money in the long run, but you will also be contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Investing in solar power in Phoenix Arizona

Installing solar panels on your home in Phoenix, Arizona can be a wise financial choice due to the ample sunshine and low cloud cover. By analyzing weather trends and electricity costs in the area, it is evident that investing in solar energy can lead to significant long-term savings. With the potential to recoup the initial investment within 4-6 years and enjoy clean, sustainable energy for decades to come, switching to solar power in Phoenix is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally responsible.