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Solar and Electricity Data for Laporte, MN: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Laporte, MN at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.3/10 0.2/10 0.2/10 9.8/10 6.3/10
Not Bad 62% daily 7 inches monthly 6.3 on average 0.12/kw

Overview

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Laporte Minnesota Weather Trends

Laporte Precipitation

With Laporte Minnesota receiving 83.55 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area sees a significant amount of rainfall. Laporte ranks in the 98th percentile in the nation and the 99th percentile in Minnesota for total precipitation. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Minnesota’s average of 37.31 inches, Laporte’s higher precipitation levels can provide ample opportunity for solar panels to efficiently generate electricity.

Laporte’s UV Rating

Laporte Minnesota boasts an average UV rating of 6.33, positioning it in the 98th percentile in the nation and in Minnesota as well. The national and state averages for UV rating are 4.29 and 3.6, respectively. Additionally, Laporte experiences an average max UV rating of 6.45, placing it in the 86th percentile in the nation and the 97th percentile in Minnesota. These higher UV ratings indicate strong sunlight exposure, ideal for maximizing the benefits of solar panel installations.

Laporte’s Cloud Cover

On average, Laporte Minnesota has a cloud cover of 62%, ranking it in the 98th percentile in the nation and the 99th percentile in Minnesota. In comparison, the national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, while Minnesota’s average is 48.96%. With a majority of days having less than 75% cloud cover, Laporte presents favorable conditions for solar energy production, as sunlight can reach the solar panels with minimal obstruction.

Laporte Minnesota Electricity Costs

Residents in Laporte Minnesota pay about $0.12 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, placing the area in the 63rd percentile in the nation and the 39th percentile in Minnesota. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while Minnesota’s average is also $0.13/kw. By harnessing the abundant sunlight and higher than average UV ratings in Laporte, installing solar panels can significantly lower electricity costs for residents in the long run, making it a financially sound investment.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Laporte Minnesota?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Laporte 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:

  • Laporte Minnesota receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in Laporte Minnesota are higher than the national averages, making it a good location for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Laporte Minnesota is higher than the national average, with varying percentages throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Laporte Minnesota pay slightly 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 solar system generates electricity, reducing the amount needed from the grid and resulting in cost savings.
  • Given Laporte Minnesota’s electricity rates, the savings from using solar power can add up over time.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings can continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar panels is not only a smart financial decision but also a way to contribute to a greener environment.

Investing in solar power in Laporte Minnesota

Based on the weather trends and electricity costs in Laporte Minnesota, it is evident that investing in solar panels can have numerous benefits for residents in the long term. With higher than average precipitation levels but also strong UV ratings and minimal cloud cover, Laporte provides an ideal environment for efficient solar energy production. Considering the lower electricity costs compared to national averages, residents can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 7 years. This not only leads to significant savings on electricity bills but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. Therefore, installing solar panels in Laporte Minnesota is a wise financial decision that can have lasting positive impacts for both individuals and the environment.