Overview
In Morrison, Illinois, 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 determine that the return on investment for a solar system is favorable. With the average max UV rating, average UV rating, average cloud cover percentage, and precipitation data in mind, it becomes clear that Morrison residents have an ideal environment for solar energy production. This article will break down the costs of a solar system and estimate how long it could take to break even, allowing residents to make an informed decision about investing in solar power for their home.
Morrison Illinois Weather Trends
Morrison Precipitation
With Morrison receiving 42.71 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area has a moderate amount of rainfall. While Morrison falls in the 33rd percentile nationwide and the 38th percentile in Illinois for total precipitation, the numbers indicate that there is sufficient rain for solar panels to function efficiently. In comparison, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, slightly higher than Morrison’s average. Illinois’s average of 45.69 inches is also higher than Morrison’s, showcasing the advantage of Morrison’s precipitation levels for solar energy production.
Morrison’s UV Rating
With an average UV rating of 3.99 in the last year, Morrison ranks in the 45th percentile nationally and the 33rd percentile in Illinois. The average max UV rating of 4.33 places Morrison in the 41st percentile nationwide and the 38th percentile in Illinois. While these numbers may seem moderate, they indicate that Morrison receives adequate sunlight for solar energy generation. Comparing this to the national average of 4.29 for average UV rating and 4.61 for average max UV rating, as well as Illinois’s averages of 4.21 and 4.53 respectively, Morrison’s UV ratings align favorably for solar panel installation.
Morrison’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 44%, Morrison is positioned in the 49th percentile nationally and the 47th percentile in Illinois. The data shows that Morrison experiences a moderate amount of cloud cover, allowing for sufficient sunlight to reach solar panels. Additionally, the distribution of cloud cover throughout the year indicates a balance that is conducive to solar energy production. Comparing this to the national average of 44.46% for average cloud cover and Illinois’s average of 44.03%, Morrison proves to have favorable conditions for harnessing solar power.
Morrison Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents in Morrison pay approximately $0.13/kw for electricity, placing them in the 77th percentile nationally and the 71st percentile in Illinois. While the cost is on par with the national average, it is slightly higher than Illinois’s average of $0.12/kw. Despite this, the relatively low cost of electricity in Morrison compared to other parts of the country makes it an ideal location to invest in solar panels. By generating their electricity, residents can reduce their dependence on the grid and potentially save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Morrison Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Morrison 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:
- Morrison Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Morrison Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still effective for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Morrison Illinois is about average for the country, with variability throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Morrison Illinois pay the same amount 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, which means less reliance on the grid and savings on electricity bills.
- With the average electricity costs in Morrison Illinois, the savings can add up over time.
After analyzing the numbers, it seems like it would take around 8-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Morrison Illinois. This means, after 8-10 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to compensate for the investment made. Additionally, since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for many years after breaking even. Investing in solar panels not only saves money but also contributes to a cleaner environment for the long term.
Investing in solar power in Morrison Illinois
Installing solar panels in Morrison, Illinois can be a wise financial decision for residents. With favorable weather conditions including sufficient sunlight and moderate cloud cover, along with relatively low electricity costs, the return on investment is promising. By analyzing the data, it is estimated that it could take approximately 8-10 years to break even on the initial cost of a solar system. This means that residents can start saving money on electricity bills while also contributing to a greener environment. Overall, investing in solar power for homes in Morrison, Illinois appears to be a sound choice that could lead to significant long-term financial savings.