Solar Energy in Macouria
Macouria is located at 4.9°N, 52.4°W in French Guiana. Here's what solar energy looks like for homeowners in this area.
Annual Irradiance
1,743
kWh/m²
Peak Sun Hours
4.1
hrs/day
3 kWp Output
4,497
kWh/year
Solar Score
83
/ 100
What does this mean for your roof?
Macouria receives approximately 1,743 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year, which translates to 4.1 peak sun hours per day. This is excellent for residential solar energy production.
With a solar score of 83/100, Macouria ranks #7 of 10 cities in French Guiana for solar potential in our atlas.
A typical 3 kWp residential solar system (7 panels) in Macouria would produce approximately 4,497 kWh per year, sized for the average household in French Guiana.
The best months for solar production in Macouria are Year-round (minimal seasonal variation), while the lowest production occurs during Rainy season (varies by region). Being in the northern hemisphere, south-facing roofs capture the most annual sunlight.
Estimated savings in Macouria
System Cost
€3,590
3 kWp, before incentives
Annual Savings
~€394
At €0.153/kWh
Payback Period
~9 years
Before local incentives
25-Year Net Result
~€9,010
Savings minus system cost
These are approximate figures based on a standardized household consumption of 5,000 kWh/year and an estimated electricity rate of €0.153/kWh in French Guiana. Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost — check current subsidy, tax-credit, or VAT programs in French Guiana, as these can meaningfully shorten the payback period.
Figures are estimates based on typical system assumptions and the latest available electricity-price and billing data for French Guiana. Actual costs, tariffs, net-metering rules, and incentives vary by utility and change over time — confirm with a local installer or energy authority before making decisions.
How solar billing works in French Guiana
Exports and imports are priced separately, usually at different rates.
In French Guiana, rooftop solar appears to fall under a net-billing-style approach, where the energy you export and the energy you import are typically valued separately rather than simply cancelling out. Exports are often credited at a rate that may be lower than the retail price you pay for imported power, which generally rewards using your own generation as it is produced. The precise export and import prices vary by region and utility and change over time, so they should be confirmed locally.
Get your exact numbers
Our calculator uses NASA satellite data for your precise location — not city-level estimates. Free, instant, no signup.
Solar tips for Macouria homeowners
Face panels south
In the northern hemisphere, south-facing panels capture the most annual sunlight. East-west split systems also work well.
Optimal tilt angle
For Macouria, the energy-optimal panel tilt is about 6° from horizontal.
Size your system right
For the average household in French Guiana, a 3 kWp system (7 panels) covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.
Check local incentives
Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost of residential solar — check current subsidy, tax-credit, and VAT programs with your energy authority in French Guiana.
Gear to prepare for solar
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission.
Solar in other French Guiana cities
Frequently asked questions about solar in Macouria
How much do solar panels cost in Macouria?
A typical 3 kWp residential solar system in Macouria, French Guiana costs approximately €3,590 before incentives — this is an estimate based on typical regional pricing. Local incentives such as subsidies, tax credits, or VAT exemptions may reduce the upfront cost; check current programs in French Guiana.
How are solar exports valued under net billing in French Guiana?
Under a net-billing-style scheme, exports from your system in French Guiana are typically bought at one rate while the electricity you import is charged at another, and the two are usually not the same. Because the export credit may be lower than the retail import price, consuming your own solar power directly tends to be the most valuable option. Actual rates vary by region and utility and can change, so confirm the current figures with a local installer or energy authority.
How much electricity do solar panels produce in Macouria?
A 3 kWp solar system in Macouria produces approximately 4,497 kWh per year, based on 4.1 peak sun hours per day and 1,743 kWh/m² annual irradiance.
What is the solar panel payback period in Macouria?
Based on French Guiana's electricity rate of €0.153/kWh, a 3 kWp system in Macouria pays for itself in approximately 9 years before incentives. After that, the electricity it generates is essentially free for the remaining panel lifespan of 25+ years.
Which direction should solar panels face in Macouria?
In Macouria, panels should ideally face south since it's in the northern hemisphere. The optimal tilt angle is about 6° from horizontal.
How many solar panels do I need for my home in Macouria?
A typical household in French Guiana uses the equivalent of a 3 kWp system (7 panels). With 4.1 peak sun hours per day in Macouria, this covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.