Overview
If you live in Hershey, Pennsylvania, you may be wondering if installing solar panels on your home is worth the investment. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to your area, we can show you the financial benefits of going solar. With the average amount of precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover in mind, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to start saving money. This information will help you make an informed decision on whether solar panels are the right choice for your home in Hershey.
Hershey Pennsylvania Weather Trends
Hershey Precipitation
With Hershey, Pennsylvania receiving 61.65 inches of precipitation in the last year, you’ll be pleased to know that this puts Hershey above the national average and just slightly above the Pennsylvania average. By harnessing this natural resource, you can take advantage of the ample rainfall to power your solar panels and reduce your dependence on traditional energy sources.
Hershey’s UV Rating
Given Hershey’s average UV rating of 3.9, you can enjoy moderate sunlight suitable for solar energy production. While Hershey’s UV rating falls below the national average, it surpasses Pennsylvania’s average. By tapping into this sustainable energy source, you can not only save money on your electricity bills but also contribute to a cleaner environment.
Hershey’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 47% cloud cover in Hershey, Pennsylvania, you may be concerned about solar panel efficiency. However, Hershey’s cloud cover is below the national average and significantly lower than Pennsylvania’s average. By opting for solar panels, you can still generate a considerable amount of energy even on cloudy days, helping you save on electricity costs in the long run.
Hershey Pennsylvania Electricity Costs
At $0.13/kw, Hershey residents pay an electricity rate that aligns with the national average and is slightly below Pennsylvania’s average. By investing in solar panels, you can lower your overall electricity costs and reduce your carbon footprint. With the potential for long-term savings, going solar in Hershey makes both financial and environmental sense.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Hershey Pennsylvania?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Hershey, Pennsylvania, 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:
- Hershey receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Hershey are slightly lower than the national average but are still good for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Hershey is about average for the country, with different levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Hershey pay an average price of $0.13/kw for electricity, which is in line with the national average.
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.
- With Hershey’s electricity rates, the savings can add up over time.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. And since solar panels last for many years, the savings will continue for a long time. It’s a wise investment that not only saves money but also benefits the environment!
Investing in solar power in Hershey Pennsylvania
Based on the analysis of weather trends and electricity costs in Hershey, Pennsylvania, it is clear that investing in solar panels can be a financially sound decision for homeowners. With above-average precipitation, moderate UV ratings, and lower cloud cover compared to national and state averages, Hershey offers an environment conducive to solar energy production. Additionally, the electricity rate in Hershey is in line with the national average, providing an opportunity for residents to save money on their utility bills. By calculating the payback period for a standard 10kW solar system, which is estimated to be around 5 years, it is evident that going solar in Hershey not only offers financial benefits but also contributes to a cleaner environment. Therefore, for residents in Hershey, installing solar panels is a smart investment that can lead to long-term savings.