Overview
Are you looking to save money on your monthly electricity bill in Benton, Illinois? Installing solar panels on your home can help you do just that! In this article, we will break down the financial benefits of investing in a solar system, using data on weather conditions and electricity costs specific to Benton. By analyzing the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, you will see how going solar can be a smart financial decision for residents in Benton.
Benton Illinois Weather Trends
Benton Precipitation
With Benton, Illinois receiving 65.75 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area experiences more rainfall compared to both the national and state averages. This high rainfall can make solar panels more efficient as they can generate electricity even on cloudy days. Investing in solar energy in Benton can be a reliable source of power throughout the year.
Benton’s UV Rating
Benton, Illinois has an average UV rating of 4.57, indicating ample sunlight for generating solar power. Comparing this to national and state averages, Benton ranks higher in terms of UV rating. This higher UV rating means that residents in Benton can benefit from increased energy production from solar panels, making it a practical investment for the long term.
Benton’s Cloud Cover
Despite having an average cloud cover of 42%, Benton, Illinois ranks lower than the national and state averages. This lower cloud cover percentage means that there are more sunny days in Benton, making it an ideal location for installing solar panels. With fewer clouds blocking the sun, solar panels in Benton can generate more electricity efficiently year-round.
Benton Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents in Benton, Illinois pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, which is on par with the state average and slightly lower than the national average. By investing in solar panels, homeowners in Benton can take control of their electricity costs and reduce their reliance on traditional power sources. With the potential to save money on electricity bills in the long run, going solar in Benton can be a financially wise decision.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Benton Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Benton 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:
- Benton Illinois receives more precipitation than the national average, but still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Benton Illinois are slightly higher than the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Benton Illinois is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Benton 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 needed from the grid.
- With Benton Illinois’ lower electricity rates, the savings are slightly lower compared to the national average.
After analyzing the data, it looks like it would take around 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Benton Illinois. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, considering that solar panels last for 25 to 30 years, there will be many more years of savings to enjoy beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar power is not only beneficial in terms of cost savings but also in helping the environment through sustainable energy use.
Investing in solar power in Benton Illinois
Investing in solar panels in Benton, Illinois can be a smart financial decision for residents looking to save money on their monthly electricity bills. By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs specific to Benton, it is evident that solar energy can be a reliable and cost-effective source of power. With the potential to break even on the initial investment in around 6 years and enjoy many more years of savings beyond that point, going solar in Benton is a practical and financially wise choice that also promotes sustainable energy use.