Overview
Are you tired of paying high electricity bills in Erie Pennsylvania? Consider installing solar panels on your home and start saving money today! In this article, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even. By analyzing weather data specific to Erie, such as inches of precipitation, average max UV rating, average UV rating, and average percentage of cloud cover, we will show you the financial benefits of switching to solar energy. Say goodbye to expensive electricity bills and hello to savings with solar panels!
Erie Pennsylvania Weather Trends
Erie Precipitation
With Erie receiving 58.38 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is in the 67th percentile nationwide and the 49th percentile in Pennsylvania. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Erie experiences slightly more precipitation. However, Pennsylvania’s average of 59.53 inches is higher than Erie’s, making the city a more favorable location for solar energy.
Erie’s UV Rating
In terms of UV rating, Erie had an average of 3.34 in the last year, ranking it in the 12th percentile in both the nation and Pennsylvania. While this may seem low, Erie’s average max UV rating of 3.46 places it in the 17th percentile nationwide and the 9th percentile in Pennsylvania. Although these ratings are below the national averages, they are still suitable for generating solar energy.
Erie’s Cloud Cover
Erie had an average of 56% cloud cover in the last year, putting it in the 90th percentile nationally and the 74th percentile in Pennsylvania. Compared to the national average of 44.46%, Erie sees more cloud cover. However, with varying cloud cover percentages throughout the year, there are still ample opportunities for solar energy production in Erie.
Erie Pennsylvania Electricity Costs
Residents in Erie pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, placing the city in the 90th percentile nationwide and the 93rd percentile in Pennsylvania. While this rate is slightly higher than the national average of $0.13/kw, it is on par with Pennsylvania’s average. By switching to solar energy, Erie residents can reduce their electricity costs, ultimately saving money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Erie Pennsylvania?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Erie, Pennsylvania, 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:
- Erie receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Erie are slightly lower than the national average, but they’re still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Erie is higher than the national average, with variations throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Erie pay slightly 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 from the grid.
- With Erie’s higher electricity rates, the savings will be significant.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so after this initial period, you will continue to enjoy savings for many more years. It’s a wise choice to save money while also contributing to environmental conservation!
Investing in solar power in Erie Pennsylvania
Switching to solar energy in Erie, Pennsylvania can not only help you save money on electricity bills but also contribute to environmental conservation. Based on the weather data specific to Erie and the electricity costs in the city, it is estimated that installing a solar system could potentially allow you to break even on your investment in approximately 6 years. With solar panels lasting between 25 and 30 years, this initial investment will continue to bring you savings for many more years to come. Say goodbye to expensive electricity bills and hello to sustainable and cost-effective energy with solar panels!