Overview
Learn how installing solar panels in Cambridge, Minnesota can save you money on your electricity bills. By examining weather data and electricity costs in the area, we will show you how a solar system can pay for itself in a certain amount of time, allowing you to enjoy long-term financial benefits.
Cambridge Minnesota Weather Trends
Cambridge Precipitation
With 38.24 inches of precipitation in the last year, Cambridge, Minnesota is in the 24th percentile nationally and the 66th percentile in the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Minnesota’s average of 37.31 inches, Cambridge’s precipitation levels indicate ideal conditions for harnessing solar energy efficiently.
Cambridge’s UV Rating
Cambridge, Minnesota had an average UV rating of 3.42 last year, ranking in the 16th percentile across the country and the 32nd percentile within Minnesota. While this may seem moderate, it is still enough to generate significant solar power. Even with a max UV rating of 3.57, Cambridge remains a viable location for installing solar panels.
Cambridge’s Cloud Cover
At an average of 53% cloud cover, Cambridge, Minnesota is in the 84th percentile nationally and the 81st percentile for the state. Despite the cloud cover, there are still plenty of days with less than 25% cloud cover, making it feasible to generate solar energy consistently throughout the year. With various options and installation techniques available, cloud cover should not deter you from considering solar panels.
Cambridge Minnesota Electricity Costs
Residents of Cambridge, Minnesota pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, which positions the city in the 89th percentile nationally and the 87th percentile within Minnesota. While the national and state averages are slightly lower at $0.13/kw, the slightly higher cost in Cambridge makes installing solar panels even more financially advantageous in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Cambridge Minnesota?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Cambridge, Minnesota, 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:
- Cambridge, Minnesota receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Cambridge are slightly lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power effectively.
- Cloud cover in Cambridge is slightly higher than the national average, which may affect the efficiency of solar panels on certain days.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Cambridge, Minnesota pay slightly more 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:
- The system generates electricity, reducing the electricity bills from the grid.
- With higher electricity rates in Cambridge, the savings are higher as well.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Cambridge, Minnesota. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment cost. Additionally, considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the savings will continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar panels not only provides financial benefits but also contributes to a more sustainable environment.
Investing in solar power in Cambridge Minnesota
Installing solar panels in Cambridge, Minnesota can be a smart financial decision. By examining the weather trends and electricity costs in the area, it is clear that solar energy can help you save money on your electricity bills over time. With the potential to break even on your investment in around 6 years, the long-term benefits of solar panels make them a worthwhile consideration for homeowners in Cambridge. Not only can you enjoy the financial savings, but you can also contribute to a more sustainable environment for future generations.