Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Alton, IL: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Alton, IL at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.8/10 7.3/10 6.1/10 6.4/10 4.3/10
Not Bad 40% daily 4 inches monthly 4.5 on average 0.11/kw

Overview

Are you tired of constantly rising electricity bills in Alton, Illinois? Look no further – installing solar panels on your home may be the solution you’ve been searching for! By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Alton, we have calculated the potential financial benefits of investing in a solar system. Our article will break down the initial cost of installation, estimate the time it will take to break even, and show you how much money you could save in the long run. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to lower your energy expenses and make a positive impact on the environment by going solar!

Alton Illinois Weather Trends

Alton Precipitation

With 45.55 inches of precipitation in the last year, Alton, Illinois falls in the 39th percentile nationwide and the 64th percentile within the state. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Illinois averages 45.69 inches annually. Investing in solar panels in Alton could be particularly beneficial due to the region’s moderate precipitation levels.

Alton’s UV Rating

Alton, Illinois boasts an average UV rating of 4.47, ranking it in the 64th percentile across the country and the 82nd percentile statewide. The national average for average UV rating is 4.29, with Illinois averaging slightly lower at 4.21. Additionally, Alton’s average max UV rating of 4.84 places it in the 53rd percentile nationally and the 74th percentile within the state, highlighting the ample potential for solar energy generation.

Alton’s Cloud Cover

At an average of 40% cloud cover in the last year, Alton, Illinois ranks in the 27th percentile nationally and the 9th percentile within Illinois. Comparatively, the national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, with Illinois slightly lower at 44.03%. With a significant number of days experiencing clear skies, Alton provides an ideal environment for solar panel efficiency.

Alton Illinois Electricity Costs

Alton, Illinois residents currently pay $0.11/kw for electricity, placing them in the 43rd percentile nationally and the 15th percentile within Illinois. Nationally, the average cost for residential electricity is slightly higher at $0.13/kw, with Illinois’s average at $0.12/kw. By installing solar panels, Alton residents can take advantage of lower electricity costs and potentially save a substantial amount on their energy bills.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Alton Illinois?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Alton 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:

  • Alton Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, providing suitable conditions for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Alton Illinois are higher than the national average, indicating good sunlight for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Alton Illinois is lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Alton Illinois pay slightly less 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 purchased from the grid.
  • With lower electricity rates in Alton Illinois, the savings are consistent.

After calculating the numbers, it appears that it would take around 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that within this timeframe, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. Additionally, since solar panels last for a long time, you will continue to benefit from these savings for many years ahead. It’s a wise financial choice that also contributes to environmental preservation!

Investing in solar power in Alton Illinois

Investing in solar panels in Alton, Illinois can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to combat rising electricity bills. With favorable weather conditions and slightly lower electricity costs in the region, the initial investment in solar panels can be recouped within 4-6 years. By harnessing solar energy, residents not only save money in the long run but also make a positive impact on the environment by reducing reliance on traditional power sources. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to lower your energy expenses and contribute to a greener future!