Overview
This article will demonstrate how installing solar panels on your home in Barstow, Illinois can save you money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we will show you how much you can expect to save on your electricity bills each year. With the upfront cost of a solar system broken down and the estimated time it will take to break even, you’ll see just how financially beneficial switching to solar power can be for your home.
Barstow Illinois Weather Trends
Barstow Precipitation
In the last year, Barstow Illinois received 42.21 inches of precipitation, placing it in the 32nd percentile in the nation and the 33rd percentile in Illinois. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and Illinois’s average of 45.69 inches, it’s clear that Barstow experiences slightly less rainfall than most areas. With less precipitation, solar panels are less likely to be obstructed by weather conditions, making them a reliable source of energy throughout the year.
Barstow’s UV Rating
Over the last year, Barstow Illinois had an average UV rating of 3.94, ranking it in the 42nd percentile nationwide and the 27th percentile within Illinois. In comparison, the national average UV rating is 4.29, and Illinois averages 4.21. The slightly lower UV rating in Barstow means that there is less direct sunlight, but it’s still sufficient for solar panels to generate significant energy. This ensures that residents can benefit from solar power despite the slightly lower UV levels.
Barstow’s Cloud Cover
Throughout the last year, Barstow Illinois had an average of 48% cloud cover, placing it in the 66th percentile in the nation and the 89th percentile in Illinois. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Illinois’s average of 44.03%, Barstow experiences slightly more cloud cover. However, with a significant number of days with clear skies, residents can still harness solar energy effectively. Even with some cloud cover, solar panels in Barstow can contribute substantially towards reducing electricity bills.
Barstow Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents of Barstow Illinois pay about $0.1 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, positioning them in the 5th percentile nationally and the 1st percentile within Illinois. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while Illinois averages $0.12/kw. With lower electricity costs in Barstow, investing in solar panels becomes even more financially appealing. By generating their electricity, residents can significantly reduce their reliance on traditional sources and save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Barstow Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Barstow 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:
- Barstow Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, but it’s still suitable for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Barstow Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still good for generating solar power.
- Barstow Illinois has about average cloud cover, with some variability throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Barstow Illinois pay less for electricity compared to the national average which will impact the savings from solar power.
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 from the grid.
- With lower electricity rates in Barstow Illinois, the savings may not be as significant compared to areas with higher rates.
After analyzing the data, it is estimated that it would take around 12-15 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Barstow Illinois. This means that after 12-15 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Since solar panels last for 25-30 years, you will continue to benefit from these savings for many more years. Investing in solar power can be a wise financial decision in the long run, providing both cost savings and environmental benefits.
Investing in solar power in Barstow Illinois
After analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Barstow, Illinois, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings. Despite slightly lower precipitation, UV ratings, and increased cloud cover, solar panels in Barstow are still effective in generating energy. With the low electricity costs in the area, residents can expect to break even on their investment in solar panels within 12-15 years. This means that after this initial period, the money saved on electricity bills will continue to provide financial benefits for many years to come. Overall, switching to solar power in Barstow can be a smart financial decision that offers both economic savings and environmental advantages.