Overview
This article discusses the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home in Wheeling, Illinois. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take to break even. By harnessing the sun’s energy, you can save money on your electricity bill and make a positive impact on the environment. Read on to learn more about the benefits of going solar in Wheeling, Illinois.
Wheeling Illinois Weather Trends
Wheeling Precipitation
With 44.66 inches of precipitation in the last year, Wheeling, Illinois ranks in the 37th percentile in the nation and the 58th percentile in Illinois. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, with Illinois averaging 45.69 inches. Installing solar panels can help offset electricity costs, especially during rainy seasons, making it a smart financial choice for Wheeling residents.
Wheeling’s UV Rating
Wheeling Illinois had an average UV rating of 3.75, placing it in the 33rd percentile in the nation and the 9th percentile in Illinois. In comparison, the national average for UV rating is 4.29, while Illinois averages 4.21. By harnessing the sun’s energy with solar panels, residents can take advantage of the ample sunlight in Wheeling, lowering their electricity bills and reducing their environmental impact.
Wheeling’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 47% cloud cover in the last year, Wheeling, Illinois is above the national average of 44.46% but below the state average of 44.03%. The varied cloud cover throughout the year presents an opportunity for solar panel owners to maximize energy production during clearer days and store excess energy for cloudier periods. This flexibility can result in significant savings on electricity bills.
Wheeling Illinois Electricity Costs
Wheeling residents pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, ranking the city in the 77th percentile in the nation and the 71st percentile in Illinois. While the national average for residential electricity is also $0.13/kw, Illinois averages slightly lower at $0.12/kw. By investing in solar panels, Wheeling residents can protect themselves from fluctuating electricity prices and potentially eliminate their reliance on the grid, leading to long-term cost savings.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Wheeling Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Wheeling Illinois, 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:
- Wheeling Illinois gets slightly less rain than the national average, with average UV ratings and cloud cover that are close to the national averages as well.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Wheeling Illinois pay about the national average for electricity.
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 amount you need to buy from the grid.
- With the average electricity costs in Wheeling Illinois, there are savings to be had.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. From that point on, the money saved on electricity bills will add up and pay off the investment. And since solar panels last for many years, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for a long time. Not only is it a smart financial move, but it’s also a great way to contribute to a more sustainable environment!
Investing in solar power in Wheeling Illinois
Installing solar panels in Wheeling, Illinois can be a smart financial decision with long-term benefits. By taking advantage of the ample sunlight in the area and offsetting electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on their investment in around 5-6 years. From that point on, the savings on electricity bills will continue to add up, making solar panels a financially viable and environmentally friendly choice for homeowners in Wheeling. Consider going solar to not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable future.