Overview
If you live in Mattoon, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home could lead to significant savings on your electricity bills. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Mattoon, we can show you how much money you could save over time by making the switch to solar energy. We will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even, providing you with a clear picture of the financial benefits of going solar in Mattoon.
Mattoon Illinois Weather Trends
Mattoon Precipitation
With Mattoon receiving 45.32 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls slightly below the national average of 50.61 inches. However, compared to the rest of Illinois, Mattoon is right around the average. This means that Mattoon’s weather conditions are conducive to solar panel installation, as the precipitation levels are manageable for optimal solar energy production.
Mattoon’s UV Rating
Mattoon’s average UV rating of 4.21 in the last year positions it close to the national average of 4.29. When compared to other areas in Illinois, Mattoon’s UV rating is also in line with the state average. The higher UV rating means more sunlight exposure, making Mattoon a prime location for harnessing solar energy efficiently throughout the year.
Mattoon’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 44% cloud cover in the last year, Mattoon is on par with the national average of 44.46%. The distribution of cloud cover throughout the days also shows a good balance, with various percentages that cater to both sunny and partially cloudy conditions. This cloud cover data indicates that Mattoon has the ideal weather conditions for consistent solar energy production.
Mattoon Illinois Electricity Costs
Mattoon residents pay approximately $0.12 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, which is below the national average of $0.13/kw. In comparison to the rest of Illinois, Mattoon falls slightly below the state average as well. By investing in solar panels, homeowners in Mattoon can take advantage of lower electricity costs, ultimately leading to substantial savings on their energy bills over time.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Mattoon Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Mattoon 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:
- Mattoon Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Mattoon Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still good for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Mattoon Illinois is about average for the country, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Mattoon Illinois pay a bit less for electricity compared to the national average, which is beneficial for cost savings.
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 from the grid.
- With Mattoon Illinois’ lower electricity rates, the savings are noticeable.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take around 8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Mattoon Illinois. This means that after 8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond that initial period, you’ll be reaping the benefits of those savings for many years to follow. It’s a smart financial decision that also benefits the environment!
Investing in solar power in Mattoon Illinois
After analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs specific to Mattoon, Illinois, it is clear that installing solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings on electricity bills for residents. With slightly lower precipitation levels, good UV ratings, and average cloud cover, Mattoon provides ideal conditions for efficient solar energy production. Additionally, with electricity costs below the national average, homeowners can expect noticeable savings by investing in solar panels. Based on these factors, it is estimated that it would take around 8 years to break even on the initial cost of solar panel installation in Mattoon. Beyond that, residents can enjoy continued savings on their energy bills for the lifespan of the solar system. Switching to solar power not only makes financial sense but also benefits the environment in the long run, making it a smart decision for Mattoon residents.