Overview
Are you tired of high electricity bills in Tucumcari, New Mexico? Installing solar panels on your home could be the solution you’ve been looking for. By analyzing weather data and basic electricity costs specific to Tucumcari, it is clear that solar energy can lead to significant savings in the long run. In this article, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even, highlighting the financial benefits of making the switch to solar power.
Tucumcari New Mexico Weather Trends
Tucumcari Precipitation
In the last year, Tucumcari New Mexico received 17.82 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 4th percentile in the nation and the 76th percentile in New Mexico. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Tucumcari sees significantly less rainfall. With a drier climate than most of the country and even the state, Tucumcari’s lower precipitation levels make it an ideal location for solar panel installations.
Tucumcari’s UV Rating
Over the past year, Tucumcari New Mexico had an average UV rating of 5.17, placing it in the 82nd percentile in the nation and the 71st percentile in New Mexico. With higher UV ratings than both the national average of 4.29 and the state average of 4.67, Tucumcari enjoys ample sunlight suitable for generating solar energy. Additionally, the region’s average max UV rating of 5.7 further emphasizes its solar potential.
Tucumcari’s Cloud Cover
In the last year, Tucumcari New Mexico experienced an average cloud cover of 23%, positioning it in the 3rd percentile in the nation and the 71st percentile in New Mexico. This lower cloud cover percentage, compared to the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 22.75%, ensures more sunlight reaches the solar panels, optimizing energy production. With a majority of days having minimal cloud cover, Tucumcari provides a favorable environment for solar power systems.
Tucumcari New Mexico Electricity Costs
Residents of Tucumcari pay approximately $0.13/kw for electricity, ranking the city in the 76th percentile nationwide and the 37th percentile in New Mexico. While the cost aligns with the national average, it is lower than the state average of $0.15/kw. By investing in solar panels, Tucumcari residents can not only reduce their reliance on grid electricity but also save money in the long run as solar energy becomes a more affordable and sustainable alternative.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Tucumcari New Mexico?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Tucumcari New Mexico, 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:
- Tucumcari New Mexico receives less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Tucumcari New Mexico are higher than the national average, making it ideal for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Tucumcari New Mexico is lower than the national average, which is beneficial for solar panel efficiency.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Tucumcari New Mexico pay the national average for electricity, making it a standard cost for solar panel savings.
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 purchased from the grid and saving money over time.
- With Tucumcari New Mexico’s average electricity rates, the savings from using solar power will be consistent.
After calculating the numbers, it appears that it would take around 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will surpass the investment cost. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for 25 to 30 years, you will benefit from these savings for a long time. Investing in solar panels is a wise financial decision that also contributes positively to the environment.
Investing in solar power in Tucumcari New Mexico
In conclusion, considering the weather trends and electricity costs in Tucumcari, New Mexico, it is evident that installing solar panels can lead to significant savings in the long term. With the region’s lower precipitation levels, higher UV ratings, and minimal cloud cover, Tucumcari provides an ideal environment for generating solar energy. By analyzing the cost of a solar system and estimating the break-even point, it is clear that investing in solar panels is not only a smart financial decision but also a sustainable choice that can benefit both your wallet and the environment for years to come.