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

Athol, MA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
2.9/10 1.5/10 1.7/10 1.6/10 9.9/10
OK 54% daily 6 inches monthly 3.4 on average 0.24/kw

Overview

Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills in Athol Massachusetts? Investing in solar panels for your home could be the solution you’ve been searching for. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs in Athol, we have determined that installing a solar system can help you break even in a reasonable amount of time. With the potential for significant savings on your monthly bills, going solar may be a smart financial decision for you and your family.

Athol Massachusetts Weather Trends

Athol Precipitation

Athol Massachusetts received 66.35 inches of precipitation in the last year, ranking it higher than 83% of the nation but lower than 37% of Massachusetts. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Athol experiences higher rainfall. However, Massachusetts’s average of 68.09 inches is even greater.

Athol’s UV Rating

Athol Massachusetts had an average UV rating of 3.43 in the last year, placing it below 84% of the nation and 89% of Massachusetts. While the national average UV rating is 4.29, Massachusetts’s average is slightly lower at 3.69. Additionally, Athol’s average max UV rating of 3.67 is also below both national and state averages.

Athol’s Cloud Cover

In the last year, Athol Massachusetts experienced an average of 54% cloud cover, higher than 85% of the nation and 89% of Massachusetts. Compared to the national average of 44.46%, Athol sees more cloudy days. With 67 days of clear skies and 103 days of heavy cloud cover, Athol’s weather patterns provide a mix of sunny and overcast days.

Athol Massachusetts Electricity Costs

Residents in Athol Massachusetts pay about $0.24 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, ranking in the top 99% nationally and 95% within the state. While the national average is significantly lower at $0.13/kw, Massachusetts’s average of $0.22/kw is also below Athol’s rate. By investing in solar panels, you can reduce your reliance on expensive grid electricity and save money in the long run.

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

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Athol 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:

  • Athol Massachusetts gets more rain than the national average, but there is still enough sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
  • The UV ratings in Athol Massachusetts are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still sufficient for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Athol Massachusetts is slightly higher than the national average, with varying degrees of cloudiness throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Athol Massachusetts 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 need to purchase as much from the grid.
  • Given Athol Massachusetts’ higher electricity rates, the savings will be substantial.

After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to recover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond that initial period, you will continue to enjoy those savings for many years. It’s a wise financial decision that also benefits the environment!

Investing in solar power in Athol Massachusetts

Investing in solar panels in Athol, Massachusetts can be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather trends and electricity costs, we have determined that the break-even point for a solar installation in Athol is approximately 5 years. After this initial period, you will start to see significant savings on your monthly electricity bills. With the potential for long-term financial benefits and the positive impact on the environment, going solar in Athol may be the right choice for you and your family.