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Solar and Electricity Data for Acton, MA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Acton, MA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.3/10 2.2/10 2/10 2.3/10 9.9/10
Not Bad 51% daily 5 inches monthly 3.6 on average 0.22/kw

Overview

In Acton Massachusetts, installing solar panels on your home can result in significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs over the course of a year, we can determine that a solar system in Acton can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. With a detailed breakdown of costs and estimated time to break even, this article will show you why going solar in Acton is a smart financial decision.

Acton Massachusetts Weather Trends

Acton Precipitation

With Acton Massachusetts receiving 64.57 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s important to note that this puts Acton in the 80th percentile in the nation and the 25th percentile in Massachusetts. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Acton experiences more rainfall. However, the state’s average of 68.09 inches shows that Acton is on the lower end. Harnessing this rainfall with solar panels can help offset energy costs and decrease reliance on traditional power sources.

Acton’s UV Rating

Acton Massachusetts had an average UV rating of 3.59 in the last year. This places Acton in the 23rd percentile nationally and the 40th percentile within Massachusetts. Despite being slightly lower than the national average of 4.29, Acton’s UV rating falls in line with the state average of 3.69. Installing solar panels in Acton can still be highly effective, even with slightly lower UV intensity, as they can still generate significant electricity from sunlight.

Acton’s Cloud Cover

Acton Massachusetts had an average of 51% cloud cover in the last year, placing it in the 78th percentile nationally and the 71st percentile within Massachusetts. While the state average for cloud cover is slightly higher at 50.86%, Acton’s cloud cover remains relatively consistent. With a good mix of clear and cloudy days, residents can benefit from solar panels even on days with some cloud cover, helping to offset electricity costs throughout the year.

Acton Massachusetts Electricity Costs

Residents in Acton Massachusetts pay about $0.22 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, which is significantly higher than the national average of $0.13/kw. However, compared to the state average of $0.22/kw, Acton is right in line. By switching to solar energy, Acton residents can protect themselves from future electricity price increases and potentially even save money compared to traditional power sources. Making the switch to solar in Acton can provide long-term financial benefits by reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Acton Massachusetts?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Acton, Massachusetts, 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:

  • Acton receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in Acton are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Acton is slightly higher than the national average, with varying percentages throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Acton pay 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 Acton’s higher electricity rates, the savings are even more significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Moreover, since solar panels last for a long time, the savings will continue for many years after that initial period. Investing in solar panels is a wise way to save money while also contributing to environmental conservation!

Investing in solar power in Acton Massachusetts

After analyzing the weather data and electricity costs in Acton Massachusetts, it is evident that installing solar panels can lead to significant financial savings in the long run. With above-average precipitation, suitable UV ratings, and consistent cloud cover, Acton provides ideal conditions for solar energy generation. Additionally, residents in Acton pay higher electricity rates compared to the national average, making the switch to solar even more beneficial. Based on the data analysis, it is estimated that homeowners in Acton could break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 5 years. This means that after this initial period, the savings on electricity bills will continue to accumulate, offering a smart financial decision for residents. Transitioning to solar power not only saves money but also contributes to environmental conservation, making it a win-win choice for homeowners in Acton Massachusetts.