Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Waukee, IA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Waukee, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.5/10 7.1/10 8.8/10 5.2/10 1.5/10
Not Bad 40% daily 3 inches monthly 4.2 on average 0.1/kw

Overview

Are you a Waukee Iowa resident looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a great investment for you. In this article, we will break down the financial benefits of installing a solar system based on local weather data and electricity costs. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how much you could save and how long it will take to break even on your investment.

Waukee Iowa Weather Trends

Waukee Precipitation

With Waukee Iowa receiving only 30.45 inches of precipitation in the last year, which is below both the national and state averages, it means more sunny days are available for solar energy production. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches, Waukee’s lower precipitation levels make it an ideal location for harnessing solar power.

Waukee’s UV Rating

At an average UV rating of 4.17 and an average max UV rating of 4.54 in the last year, Waukee Iowa enjoys moderate to high levels of sunlight. This places Waukee above the national average of 4.29 for average UV rating and 4.61 for average max UV rating, as well as above Iowa’s averages. With ample sunlight, installing solar panels in Waukee can lead to increased energy generation and savings on electricity bills over time.

Waukee’s Cloud Cover

Waukee Iowa’s average of 40% cloud cover in the last year indicates a relatively clear sky, allowing for more sunlight to reach solar panels and generate electricity. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Iowa’s average of 42.8% for cloud cover, Waukee’s lower cloud cover percentage provides an optimal environment for solar power production throughout the year.

Waukee Iowa Electricity Costs

With Waukee Iowa residents paying only $0.1/kw for electricity, which is below both the national and state averages, going solar can result in significant long-term savings on utility bills. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw and Iowa’s average of $0.13/kw for residential electricity, Waukee offers a cost-effective opportunity for homeowners to invest in solar energy and reduce their reliance on traditional power sources.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Waukee Iowa?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Waukee Iowa, 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:

  • Waukee Iowa gets less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Waukee Iowa are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Waukee Iowa is slightly lower than the national average, with variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Waukee Iowa pay less for electricity compared to 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, especially with lower electricity costs in Waukee Iowa.

After analyzing the data, it seems like it would take around 4-5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Waukee Iowa. This means that after that period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, solar panels have a long lifespan, ensuring continued savings for many years after breaking even. It’s a wise investment for saving money and contributing to a greener environment!

Investing in solar power in Waukee Iowa

Installing solar panels in Waukee Iowa can be a smart financial decision for residents looking to save money on electricity bills. With the combination of favorable weather conditions, including lower precipitation, ample sunlight, and clear skies, along with below-average electricity costs, solar energy offers significant long-term savings. Based on local data, it’s estimated that homeowners in Waukee could break even on their investment in solar panels within 4-5 years, with continued savings for the lifespan of the system. Investing in solar power not only benefits your wallet but also contributes to a greener environment for future generations.