Overview
Are you a Westerly Rhode Island resident looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be the solution you’ve been searching for. By analyzing 365 days of weather data specific to Westerly, including precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover, we can estimate the financial benefits of switching to solar power. With the cost of a solar system broken down and a prediction of how long it will take to break even, you’ll see how much you could potentially save in the long run.
Westerly Rhode Island Weather Trends
Westerly Precipitation
With Westerly Rhode Island receiving 75.16 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s clear that this coastal town sees its fair share of rain. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Westerly is in the 94th percentile in the country. Even within Rhode Island, where the average is 70.49 inches, Westerly ranks in the 90th percentile. By harnessing the power of solar panels, you can offset your electricity usage without worrying about the impact of rainy days.
Westerly’s UV Rating
When it comes to UV ratings, Westerly Rhode Island has an average of 3.65, placing it in the 26th percentile nationally and the 19th percentile within Rhode Island. Despite these lower rankings, solar energy remains a viable option for your home in Westerly. By taking advantage of the available sunlight, you can generate clean energy and reduce your reliance on the grid. With a little help from solar panels, you can make the most of even the sunniest days.
Westerly’s Cloud Cover
Westerly Rhode Island experiences an average of 48% cloud cover, placing it in the 68th percentile nationally and the 19th percentile within the state. With a mix of clear and cloudy days throughout the year, solar panels can still effectively generate electricity for your home in Westerly. By capturing sunlight when it’s available, you can lower your energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. Even on days with more cloud cover, solar panels can make a difference in your energy bill.
Westerly Rhode Island Electricity Costs
Residents of Westerly pay around $0.22/kw for electricity, ranking them in the 99th percentile nationally and the 67th percentile within Rhode Island. Even though electricity costs in Westerly are higher than the national average of $0.13/kw, switching to solar power can help offset these expenses in the long run. By investing in solar panels for your home, you can take control of your energy costs and reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Westerly Rhode Island?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Westerly Rhode Island, 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:
- Westerly Rhode Island receives more precipitation than the national average, which can affect solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Westerly Rhode Island are slightly lower than the national average, but still good for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover is slightly higher in Westerly Rhode Island compared to the national average, with different levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Westerly Rhode Island pay more for electricity compared to the national average, which makes solar power more cost-effective.
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 purchased from the grid, especially with higher electricity rates in Westerly.
After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 8-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. That means, after 8-10 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to pay off the investment. Additionally, solar panels last for many years beyond that initial period, ensuring continuous savings and environmental benefits. It’s a wise financial and sustainable choice!
Investing in solar power in Westerly Rhode Island
Switching to solar power in Westerly Rhode Island could be a smart financial move for residents looking to save money in the long run. By analyzing the weather patterns specific to the region, including precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover, we can see how solar panels can help offset electricity costs. Despite higher electricity prices in Westerly, investing in solar panels could lead to breaking even on the initial cost in as little as 8-10 years. Not only will you start saving money on electricity bills, but you’ll also contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing your carbon footprint. Consider the benefits of solar energy for your home in Westerly and start saving today!