Overview
If you’re a Benton Wisconsin resident looking to save money on your electricity bills, installing solar panels on your home could be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather data over the course of a year, we can show you how much sunshine your area receives, which translates into potential savings on your energy expenses. In this article, we will break down the costs of a solar system, estimate how long it will take to break even, and illustrate the financial benefits of going solar in Benton Wisconsin.
Benton Wisconsin Weather Trends
Benton Precipitation
With Benton Wisconsin receiving 40 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is important to note that this places the area in the 27th percentile nationwide and the 51st percentile in Wisconsin. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Wisconsin’s average of 40.57 inches, Benton’s precipitation levels are on the lower side, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation.
Benton’s UV Rating
In the last year, Benton Wisconsin had an average UV rating of 3.68, putting it in the 28th percentile nationwide and the 86th percentile statewide. Compared to the national average of 4.29 and Wisconsin’s average of 3.51, Benton’s UV rating may seem moderate, but it is still conducive to generating solar power efficiently. Additionally, with an average max UV rating of 3.97, Benton is well-positioned for harnessing solar energy.
Benton’s Cloud Cover
Having an average of 49% cloud cover in the last year, Benton Wisconsin falls in the 71st percentile nationwide and the 52nd percentile within the state. Even though the national average for cloud cover is 44.46% and Wisconsin’s average is 49.97%, Benton’s cloud cover levels are relatively favorable for solar energy production. With varying degrees of cloud cover throughout the year, there are still ample opportunities for sunlight to reach your solar panels.
Benton Wisconsin Electricity Costs
Residents in Benton Wisconsin pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, positioning the area in the 81st percentile nationally and the 39th percentile in Wisconsin. With the national average sitting at $0.13/kw and Wisconsin’s average at $0.14/kw, Benton’s electricity costs are slightly above average. By investing in solar panels, you can offset these costs over time and potentially save money on your energy bills in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Benton Wisconsin?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Benton Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin received less precipitation compared to the national average, which is good for solar power generation.
- The UV ratings in Benton Wisconsin are slightly below the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Benton Wisconsin is slightly above the national average, with varying degrees throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Benton Wisconsin pay slightly 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 from the grid.
- With higher electricity rates in Benton Wisconsin, the savings will be more significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, considering the long lifespan of solar panels, you will continue to enjoy savings for many years after that initial period. Investing in solar panels is not only a financially savvy decision but also a sustainable choice for the environment.
Investing in solar power in Benton Wisconsin
Installing solar panels in Benton Wisconsin can be a wise financial move for residents looking to lower their electricity bills. By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in the area, it is evident that solar power generation is a viable option. With lower precipitation levels, moderate UV ratings, and favorable cloud cover, Benton is well-suited for harnessing solar energy. Considering the slightly above-average electricity costs in the area, investing in a solar system could lead to significant savings over time. Based on the analysis, it would take approximately 5 years to recover the initial investment in solar panels, after which residents can enjoy long-term financial benefits. Choosing solar power is not only cost-effective but also contributes to a sustainable future.