Overview
In Andover, Minnesota, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill over time. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how much money you could save by switching to solar energy. With detailed breakdowns of system costs and estimated break-even timelines, this article will demonstrate why investing in solar panels is not only environmentally friendly, but also financially beneficial for Andover residents.
Andover Minnesota Weather Trends
Andover Precipitation
In the last year Andover Minnesota received 37.88 inches of precipitation. That puts Andover in the 23rd percentile in the nation and the 62nd percentile in Minnesota. The national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches. Minnesota’s average for total precipitation is 37.31 inches. With slightly lower precipitation levels compared to the national average, Andover’s weather conditions are conducive to harnessing solar energy efficiently.
Andover’s UV Rating
In the last year Andover Minnesota had an average UV rating of 3.48, placing it in the 18th percentile nationally and the 36th percentile within Minnesota. The national average for average UV rating is 4.29, while Minnesota’s average is 3.6. Additionally, Andover had an average max UV rating of 3.62, ranking in the 21st percentile in the nation and the 40th percentile in Minnesota. These UV ratings indicate ample sunlight for optimal solar panel performance in Andover.
Andover’s Cloud Cover
In the last year, Andover Minnesota had an average of 53% cloud cover, ranking in the 83rd percentile nationally and the 80th percentile within Minnesota. The national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, and Minnesota’s average is 48.96%. With a significant number of clear days and relatively low cloud cover, Andover provides a favorable environment for solar energy production.
Andover Minnesota Electricity Costs
Andover Minnesota residents pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, placing them in the 76th percentile nationally and the 62nd percentile within Minnesota. The national average for residential electricity is also $0.13/kw, as is the average in Minnesota. By investing in solar panels, Andover residents can take advantage of these relatively low electricity costs and potentially save significantly on their energy bills over time.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Andover Minnesota?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Andover Minnesota, 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:
- Andover Minnesota receives less precipitation compared to the national average, providing good conditions for solar panels to operate efficiently.
- The UV ratings in Andover Minnesota are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Andover Minnesota is higher than the national average, with different levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Andover Minnesota pay an average 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, reducing the amount needed from the grid.
- With Andover Minnesota’s electricity rates, the savings will gradually add up over time.
Based on the calculations, it appears that it would take approximately 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. After this period, the savings on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Moreover, since solar panels have a long lifespan, you will continue to benefit from these savings for many years to come. Investing in solar power not only helps you save money but also contributes to a sustainable environment.
Investing in solar power in Andover Minnesota
By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Andover, Minnesota, it is evident that investing in solar panels can lead to significant financial savings over time. With lower precipitation levels, ample sunlight, and relatively low cloud cover, Andover provides an ideal environment for efficient solar energy production. Additionally, with electricity costs in Andover being average compared to the national and state averages, residents can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 6-7 years. This not only helps in saving money in the long run but also contributes to a sustainable environment. Therefore, switching to solar energy is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally friendly for Andover residents.