Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Benton, MS: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Benton, MS at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.3/10 7.1/10 4.2/10 8.9/10 6.1/10
Pretty Good 40% daily 5 inches monthly 5.5 on average 0.12/kw

Overview

This article will show how installing solar panels on your home in Benton Mississippi can greatly reduce your electricity costs and lead to significant long-term savings. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Benton, we will demonstrate the financial benefits of switching to solar power. We will break down the cost of a solar system, estimate the time it will take to break even, and highlight how you can take advantage of the sunny weather in Benton to generate your own clean and affordable energy.

Benton Mississippi Weather Trends

Benton Precipitation

With Benton Mississippi receiving 54.69 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s evident that the area experiences a moderate amount of rainfall. While Benton falls in the 58th percentile nationally, it ranks in the 19th percentile within Mississippi. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, slightly lower than Benton’s annual average. In contrast, Mississippi’s average total precipitation is 60.13 inches, higher than Benton’s but still within a similar range.

Benton’s UV Rating

Looking at the UV rating in Benton Mississippi, which averages at 5.51, it’s clear that the area receives a high amount of ultraviolet radiation. Benton ranks in the 89th percentile nationwide and the 78th percentile within Mississippi. This means that residents have ample exposure to sunlight, making it ideal for harnessing solar energy. Comparing this to the national average of 4.29 and Mississippi’s average of 5.31, Benton stands out as a favorable location for solar panel installation. Additionally, Benton’s average max UV rating of 5.92 further solidifies its position as a sunny locale.

Benton’s Cloud Cover

With an average cloud cover of 40% in Benton Mississippi, the area experiences relatively clear skies throughout the year. Benton ranks in the 29th percentile nationally and the 36th percentile in Mississippi. This lower cloud cover percentage makes it an excellent location for solar panel efficiency, as fewer clouds mean more direct sunlight for energy production. Additionally, the distribution of cloud cover days in Benton allows for a good balance between sunny and cloudy days, providing consistent energy generation potential.

Benton Mississippi Electricity Costs

Residents of Benton Mississippi pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, positioning them in the 61st percentile nationally and the 82nd percentile within the state. While slightly above the national average of $0.13/kw, Benton’s electricity costs are lower than the Mississippi average of $0.11/kw. By harnessing the abundant sunlight and favorable weather conditions in Benton for solar energy production, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional grid electricity and save significantly on their energy bills in the long run.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Benton Mississippi?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Benton Mississippi, 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 Mississippi receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings are higher than the national average, indicating good conditions for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Benton Mississippi 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 slightly lower electricity rates in Benton Mississippi, the savings may be slightly less compared to the national average.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 4-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate, ultimately paying off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the payback period. Investing in solar panels is a wise way to save money and contribute to a greener environment!

Investing in solar power in Benton Mississippi

Installing solar panels in Benton Mississippi is a financially sound decision that can lead to significant long-term savings for residents. By taking advantage of the area’s abundant sunlight and favorable weather conditions, homeowners can reduce their reliance on traditional grid electricity and lower their energy bills. With an estimated 4-6 year payback period for a standard solar system, the initial investment can lead to years of savings and contribute to a greener environment. Making the switch to solar power in Benton is not only a smart financial choice but also a positive step towards a more sustainable future.