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Solar and Electricity Data for Windsor, CA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Windsor, CA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.3/10 2.2/10 7/10 2.5/10 9.9/10
Not Bad 51% daily 3 inches monthly 3.6 on average 0.24/kw

Overview

Are you tired of high electricity bills in Windsor, California? Installing solar panels on your home could be the solution! By analyzing weather data and electricity cost trends specific to Windsor, we can show you how much money you could save with a solar system. Discover the financial benefits of going solar and how long it may take to break even on your investment.

Windsor California Weather Trends

Windsor Precipitation

With 41.54 inches of precipitation in the last year, Windsor California falls in the 30th percentile in the nation and the 75th percentile in California. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Windsor receives a moderate amount of rain. In California, where the average total precipitation is 31.54 inches, Windsor experiences more rainfall.

Windsor’s UV Rating

Windsor California had an average UV rating of 3.63 in the last year, placing it in the 25th percentile in the nation and the 13th percentile in California. While the national average for UV rating is 4.29, California’s average is even higher at 4.76. With an average max UV rating of 3.81, Windsor continues to remain below the national and state averages, providing ample sunshine without excessive UV exposure.

Windsor’s Cloud Cover

Despite having an average cloud cover of 51% in the last year, Windsor California ranks high in the nation, at the 78th percentile, and even higher in California, at the 93rd percentile. Comparing this to the national average of 44.46% and California’s average of 31.53%, Windsor experiences cloudier skies more frequently. However, with a good balance of days with varying cloud cover percentages, there are still plenty of sunny days to harness solar energy.

Windsor California Electricity Costs

Residents of Windsor California pay about $0.24 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, ranking the city in the 99th percentile nationally and the 96th percentile in California. In comparison, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while California’s average stands at $0.21/kw. Despite the higher cost of electricity, installing solar panels can significantly reduce monthly bills and provide long-term savings.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Windsor California?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Windsor California, 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:

  • Windsor California receives slightly less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Windsor California are lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Windsor California is slightly higher than the national average, with varying degrees throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Windsor California pay more for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.24/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 system generates electricity, reducing the amount needed from the grid, especially with the higher electricity rates in Windsor California.

After analyzing the data, it is estimated that it would take around 7-8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start offsetting the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, the savings will continue for many years after the initial investment is recouped. Investing in solar panels is not only a smart financial move but also a step towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.

Investing in solar power in Windsor California

Installing solar panels in Windsor, California can be a smart financial decision. With higher-than-average electricity costs and a suitable climate for solar energy generation, residents can expect to break even on their investment in approximately 7-8 years. Beyond recouping the initial cost, savings on electricity bills will continue for many years, making solar panels an attractive option for those looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.