Overview
Are you tired of high electricity bills in Appleton, Wisconsin? Imagine if you could save money every month by harnessing the power of the sun with solar panels on your home. In this article, we will show you how you can cut your energy costs by installing a solar system, based on weather data and electricity rates specific to Appleton. We will break down the costs of installation and estimate how long it will take for you to see a return on your investment. With solar energy, you can start saving money and make a positive impact on the environment at the same time.
Appleton Wisconsin Weather Trends
Appleton Precipitation
With Appleton receiving 45.4 inches of precipitation in the last year, you can take advantage of the sun to save money on your electricity bills. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Appleton falls below the median, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation. In Wisconsin, where the average is 40.57 inches, Appleton also outperforms the majority of the state.
Appleton’s UV Rating
Appleton boasts an average UV rating of 3.44, positioning it in the 16th percentile nationwide and the 33rd percentile within Wisconsin. While the national average sits at 4.29, Appleton’s rating is still conducive to harnessing solar energy effectively. With a maximum UV rating of 3.61, Appleton continues to show promise for solar panel efficiency, especially considering the national average of 4.61.
Appleton’s Cloud Cover
Despite an average cloud cover of 53%, Appleton remains in a favorable position for solar panel installation. Ranking at the 84th percentile nationally and the 82nd percentile in Wisconsin, Appleton’s cloud cover is conducive to generating solar power. With a distribution of cloud cover days, ranging from clear to overcast, you can capitalize on the sunny days to maximize your energy savings.
Appleton Wisconsin Electricity Costs
Appleton residents pay approximately $0.13/kw for electricity, which is lower than the national average. In comparison to the $0.13/kw national average, Appleton’s electricity costs are competitive. While the state average in Wisconsin is slightly higher at $0.14/kw, Appleton’s rates still fall below the typical cost for residential electricity in the state.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Appleton Wisconsin?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Appleton Wisconsin, 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:
- Appleton Wisconsin receives a bit less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Appleton Wisconsin are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Appleton Wisconsin is slightly higher than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Appleton Wisconsin pay the same rate for electricity as 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.
- Since the electricity cost is average, the savings from using solar power are consistent.
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 savings on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the savings will continue for many years after the initial payback period. Investing in solar panels is not only a smart financial decision but also a way to contribute to a sustainable and environmentally-friendly future.
Investing in solar power in Appleton Wisconsin
Installing solar panels in Appleton, Wisconsin can be a beneficial decision for both your wallet and the environment. By taking advantage of the area’s lower precipitation levels, adequate UV ratings, and favorable cloud cover, you can expect to see significant savings on your electricity bills. With the relatively competitive electricity costs in Appleton, the initial investment in a solar system could be recouped in approximately 5 years. Not only will you start saving money after this period, but you will also be contributing to a sustainable future by harnessing clean and renewable energy. Making the switch to solar power in Appleton is a smart and environmentally friendly choice that can have long-lasting benefits.