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Solar and Electricity Data for West Orange, NJ: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

West Orange, NJ at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.5/10 3.5/10 0.9/10 3.9/10 9.3/10
Not Bad 48% daily 6 inches monthly 3.9 on average 0.15/kw

Overview

In West Orange, New Jersey, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial savings over time. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how a solar system can help you break even and start saving money on your energy bills. With the right information, you can make an informed decision about whether solar panels are a wise investment for your home.

West Orange New Jersey Weather Trends

West Orange Precipitation

With 72.11 inches of precipitation in the last year, West Orange is in the 91st percentile in the nation and the 89th percentile in New Jersey. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, and New Jersey’s average is 65.31 inches. By harnessing this ample rainfall with solar panels, you can generate clean energy even during rainy days.

West Orange’s UV Rating

West Orange’s average UV rating of 3.88 places it in the 39th percentile in the nation and the 19th percentile in New Jersey. In comparison, the national average for average UV rating is 4.29 and New Jersey’s average is 4.04. With consistent sunlight, installing solar panels in West Orange can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity, leading to long-term financial savings.

West Orange’s Cloud Cover

West Orange had an average of 48% cloud cover last year, placing it in the 65th percentile in the nation and the 85th percentile in New Jersey. The national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, while New Jersey’s is 45.99%. With nearly half the days having less than 25% cloud cover, solar panels in West Orange can capture sunlight effectively and maximize energy production.

West Orange New Jersey Electricity Costs

Residents in West Orange pay about $0.15/kw for electricity, positioning the area in the 93rd percentile nationally and the 27th percentile in New Jersey. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, and New Jersey’s average is $0.16/kw. By installing solar panels, you can reduce your dependence on traditional power sources, offsetting rising energy costs and contributing to a greener environment.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in West Orange New Jersey?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in West Orange New Jersey, 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:

  • West Orange New Jersey gets more rain than the national average, but still has enough sun for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in West Orange New Jersey are slightly lower than the national average but are still good for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in West Orange New Jersey is about average for the country, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in West Orange New Jersey pay a bit 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. Here’s how:

  • The system generates electricity, reducing the amount needed to be purchased from the grid.
  • With West Orange New Jersey’s higher electricity rates, the savings from using solar power are significant.

After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. And don’t forget, with solar panels lasting for up to 30 years, you’ll continue to see savings long after the investment is recouped. It’s a wise financial decision that also benefits the environment!

Investing in solar power in West Orange New Jersey

Installing solar panels in West Orange, New Jersey, can be a smart financial move. By harnessing the area’s ample rainfall and sunlight, you can generate clean energy even during cloudy days. With electricity costs slightly higher than the national average, investing in solar panels can lead to significant savings in the long run. After analyzing the data, it’s clear that breaking even on the initial cost of solar panels can happen in about 6 years. This investment not only pays off financially but also contributes to a greener environment. Making an informed decision about solar panels for your home can lead to both economic and ecological benefits.