Overview
With the rising costs of electricity and concerns about the environment, many Plainfield Illinois residents are considering making the switch to solar energy. In this article, we will explore the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home in Plainfield, using weather data and electricity cost information specific to the area. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, we aim to show you how investing in solar energy can save you money in the long run.
Plainfield Illinois Weather Trends
Plainfield Precipitation
With Plainfield Illinois receiving 42.15 inches of precipitation last year, it falls below both the national and state averages. This lower amount of precipitation can be advantageous for solar panel owners, as it means fewer cloudy days that could potentially decrease energy production.
Plainfield’s UV Rating
Plainfield’s average UV rating of 3.96 places it slightly below the national average but above the state average. This means that there is a good amount of sunlight available for solar panels to generate electricity efficiently. With an average max UV rating of 4.29, homeowners in Plainfield can take advantage of the sun’s energy to power their homes.
Plainfield’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 45% cloud cover, Plainfield residents experience slightly more cloud cover than the national average but less than the state average. However, with a significant number of days with less than 25% cloud cover, there are plenty of opportunities for solar panels to capture sunlight and produce electricity efficiently.
Plainfield Illinois Electricity Costs
At $0.13/kw, Plainfield residents pay slightly above the national average for electricity. However, compared to the state average of $0.12/kw, Plainfield’s electricity costs are still reasonable. By investing in solar panels, homeowners in Plainfield can take control of their energy costs and save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Plainfield Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Plainfield 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:
- Plainfield Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Plainfield Illinois are slightly lower than the national average but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Plainfield Illinois is about average for the country with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Plainfield Illinois pay the national average for electricity at $0.13/kw.
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 bought from the grid.
- Since the electricity costs are standard, the savings are steady over time.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 5 to 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 to 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate, paying off the investment. Furthermore, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar panels is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally friendly, providing a sustainable energy source for the future.
Investing in solar power in Plainfield Illinois
Investing in solar panels in Plainfield, Illinois can prove to be a wise financial decision in the long run. By taking advantage of the area’s weather trends, including lower precipitation, good UV ratings, and manageable cloud cover, homeowners can expect efficient energy production from solar panels. With electricity costs slightly above the national average, switching to solar power can help residents save money over time. Based on our analysis, it is estimated that it would take around 5 to 6 years to break even on the initial cost of installing solar panels. Beyond that point, homeowners can continue to enjoy savings on their electricity bills while contributing to a more sustainable future. Making the switch to solar energy in Plainfield is not only a smart financial move but also a step towards a greener environment.