Solar Energy in Koolbaai
Koolbaai is located at 18.0°N, 63.1°W in Sint Maarten. Here's what solar energy looks like for homeowners in this area.
Annual Irradiance
2,048
kWh/m²
Peak Sun Hours
4.8
hrs/day
2.5 kWp Output
4,403
kWh/year
Solar Score
94
/ 100
What does this mean for your roof?
Koolbaai receives approximately 2,048 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year, which translates to 4.8 peak sun hours per day. This is excellent for residential solar energy production.
With a solar score of 94/100, Koolbaai ranks #3 of 5 cities in Sint Maarten for solar potential in our atlas.
A typical 2.5 kWp residential solar system (6 panels) in Koolbaai would produce approximately 4,403 kWh per year, sized for the average household in Sint Maarten.
The best months for solar production in Koolbaai are May – August, while the lowest production occurs during November – January. Being in the northern hemisphere, south-facing roofs capture the most annual sunlight.
Estimated savings in Koolbaai
System Cost
ƒ5,820
2.5 kWp, before incentives
Annual Savings
~ƒ1,310
At ƒ0.514/kWh
Payback Period
~4 years
Before local incentives
25-Year Net Result
~ƒ35,980
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 ƒ0.514/kWh in Sint Maarten. Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost — check current subsidy, tax-credit, or VAT programs in Sint Maarten, 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 Sint Maarten. 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 Sint Maarten
Exports and imports are priced separately, usually at different rates.
In Sint Maarten, 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
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Solar tips for Koolbaai 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 Koolbaai, the energy-optimal panel tilt is about 19° from horizontal.
Size your system right
For the average household in Sint Maarten, a 2.5 kWp system (6 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 Sint Maarten.
Gear to prepare for solar
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Solar in other Sint Maarten cities
Frequently asked questions about solar in Koolbaai
How much do solar panels cost in Koolbaai?
A typical 2.5 kWp residential solar system in Koolbaai, Sint Maarten costs approximately ƒ5,820 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 Sint Maarten.
How are solar exports valued under net billing in Sint Maarten?
Under a net-billing-style scheme, exports from your system in Sint Maarten 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 Koolbaai?
A 2.5 kWp solar system in Koolbaai produces approximately 4,403 kWh per year, based on 4.8 peak sun hours per day and 2,048 kWh/m² annual irradiance.
What is the solar panel payback period in Koolbaai?
Based on Sint Maarten's electricity rate of ƒ0.514/kWh, a 2.5 kWp system in Koolbaai pays for itself in approximately 4 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 Koolbaai?
In Koolbaai, panels should ideally face south since it's in the northern hemisphere. The optimal tilt angle is about 19° from horizontal.
How many solar panels do I need for my home in Koolbaai?
A typical household in Sint Maarten uses the equivalent of a 2.5 kWp system (6 panels). With 4.8 peak sun hours per day in Koolbaai, this covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.