Overview
Do you live in Poquoson, Virginia? Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be the perfect solution for you. By analyzing weather data specific to Poquoson, such as inches of precipitation, average UV ratings, and cloud cover, we can estimate the potential financial benefits of going solar in your area. With the cost of a solar system broken down and the estimated time it will take to break even, you can see how investing in solar panels can lead to long-term savings on your electricity expenses.
Poquoson Virginia Weather Trends
Poquoson Precipitation
With Poquoson receiving 66.48 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is in the 83rd percentile in the nation and the 88th percentile in Virginia. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, and Virginia’s average is 56.77 inches. The higher levels of precipitation in Poquoson make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy, as rainy days can still provide energy production through diffused sunlight.
Poquoson’s UV Rating
Having an average UV rating of 4.56 places Poquoson in the 66th percentile in the nation and the 71st percentile in Virginia. In comparison, the national average for UV rating is 4.29, and Virginia’s average is 4.41. Additionally, the average max UV rating in Poquoson is 4.74, which is above the national average. These higher UV ratings indicate that Poquoson receives ample sunlight, making it an excellent location for solar panel installation to maximize energy production.
Poquoson’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 42% cloud cover, Poquoson falls in the 39th percentile in the nation and the 18th percentile in Virginia. Both the national and state averages for cloud cover are slightly higher than in Poquoson. Additionally, the distribution of cloud cover throughout the year allows for consistent solar energy production, with the majority of days experiencing less than 50% cloud cover. This means that even on partly cloudy days, solar panels can still generate significant electricity.
Poquoson Virginia Electricity Costs
Residents of Poquoson pay around $0.12/kw for electricity, positioning the city in the 57th percentile in the nation and the 50th percentile in Virginia. Comparatively, the national average for residential electricity is slightly higher at $0.13/kw, while Virginia’s average aligns with Poquoson at $0.12/kw. Lower electricity costs in Poquoson paired with the favorable weather conditions make investing in solar panels a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for long-term savings on electricity bills.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Poquoson Virginia?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Poquoson Virginia, 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:
- Poquoson Virginia receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still gets enough sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
- The UV ratings in Poquoson Virginia are slightly above the national average, which is great for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Poquoson Virginia is slightly below the national average, with a decent amount of sunny days throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Poquoson Virginia pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.12/kw.
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 solar system will generate electricity, reducing the amount needed from the grid which saves money on electricity bills.
- With lower electricity costs in Poquoson Virginia, the savings will add up, helping to cover the initial investment cost.
After calculating the numbers, it seems that it would take around 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means, after 6-7 years, the savings on electricity bills will start to surpass the investment. Since solar panels can last up to 30 years, this investment will continue to bring savings and benefits for many years to come. It’s a smart financial choice that also promotes sustainability and environmental friendliness!
Investing in solar power in Poquoson Virginia
Considering the favorable weather conditions and electricity costs in Poquoson, Virginia, investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings on electricity expenses. With above-average sunlight exposure, below-average cloud cover, and slightly lower electricity costs, residents of Poquoson can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in around 6-7 years. This decision not only makes financial sense but also contributes to sustainability and environmental friendliness, making it a smart choice for homeowners looking to save money while reducing their carbon footprint.