Peak sun hours in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota averages 4.6 peak sun hours per day — 2% below the US average of 4.7. In practical terms, every 1 kW of solar there produces about 1,343 kWh of electricity a year.
Peak sun hours/day
4.6
Annual kWh per kW
1,343
vs US average
-2%
What this means for your system
To produce a given amount of electricity, you need fewer panels where there are more peak sun hours. At 4.6 hours, a typical home in South Dakota needs a system sized to its usage and local sun — see exact numbers on the South Dakota solar cost page or work it out with our sizing guide.
Peak sun hours in South Dakota: FAQ
How many peak sun hours does South Dakota get?
South Dakota averages about 4.6 peak sun hours per day — 2% below the US average. That works out to roughly 1,343 kWh of electricity per year for every 1 kW of solar installed.
Is South Dakota good for solar based on sunlight?
Sunlight is only part of the picture. South Dakota's 4.6 peak sun hours are below average, so panels produce a little less, but your electricity rate and incentives matter just as much. See the full economics on our South Dakota solar cost page.