Overview
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show how a solar system can help you save money in the long run. With information on precipitation, UV ratings, cloud cover, and the cost breakdown of a solar system, you can see how quickly you can break even on your investment and start enjoying the savings that come with generating your own energy.
Ann Arbor Michigan Weather Trends
Ann Arbor Precipitation
With Ann Arbor receiving 45.81 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls in the 40th percentile nationwide and the 73rd percentile in Michigan. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Michigan’s average is slightly lower at 44.01 inches. Despite being slightly below the national average, Ann Arbor still experiences enough rainfall to benefit from a solar panel system.
Ann Arbor’s UV Rating
Ann Arbor had an average UV rating of 3.51 in the last year, placing it in the 19th percentile nationwide and the 60th percentile in Michigan. The national average for UV rating is 4.29, slightly higher than Ann Arbor’s rating. Michigan’s average of 3.43 is comparable to Ann Arbor’s, showing that the city experiences sufficient sunlight to make solar panels a viable option for generating energy.
Ann Arbor’s Cloud Cover
Ann Arbor had an average of 55% cloud cover in the last year, ranking it in the 87th percentile nationwide and the 72nd percentile in Michigan. While the city does experience cloudier days compared to the national average of 44.46%, Michigan’s average cloud cover of 52.98% is similar to Ann Arbor’s. Despite the cloud cover, Ann Arbor still has enough clear days to make solar panels a worthwhile investment.
Ann Arbor Michigan Electricity Costs
Residents in Ann Arbor pay about $0.17/kw for electricity, which is in the 96th percentile nationwide and the 80th percentile in Michigan. The national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, making Ann Arbor slightly higher in cost. Michigan’s average of $0.16/kw is also lower than Ann Arbor’s rates. By installing solar panels, Ann Arbor residents can offset these higher electricity costs and save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Ann Arbor Michigan?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Ann Arbor Michigan, 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:
- Ann Arbor Michigan receives slightly less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar panel installation.
- The UV ratings in Ann Arbor Michigan are lower than the national average but are still sufficient for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Ann Arbor Michigan is higher than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Ann Arbor Michigan 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 Ann Arbor Michigan’s higher electricity rates, the savings from using solar power are significant.
After running 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 pay off the investment. Additionally, considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the savings will continue for many years beyond that initial payback period. Investing in solar panels is a wise way to save money and contribute to a healthier environment for the future.
Investing in solar power in Ann Arbor Michigan
Considering the weather trends in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and the cost of electricity in the area, installing solar panels can be a financially beneficial decision. With slightly lower than average precipitation, sufficient UV ratings, and manageable cloud cover, Ann Arbor provides a favorable environment for solar panel installation. Despite higher electricity costs compared to the national average, the savings from generating your own energy can help offset these expenses. By investing in a solar system, residents in Ann Arbor can expect to break even on their initial cost in approximately 6 years. This means that after this period, they can start enjoying significant savings on their electricity bills. Not only is installing solar panels a smart financial move, but it also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.