Overview
In Bismarck, North Dakota, installing solar panels on your home can significantly reduce your electricity costs over time. By analyzing weather data and basic electricity rates, we will show you the financial benefits of switching to solar energy. With a breakdown of the cost of a solar system and an estimate of how long it will take to break even, you’ll see how investing in solar panels can save you money in the long run.
Bismarck North Dakota Weather Trends
Bismarck Precipitation
With Bismarck, North Dakota receiving 36.69 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the city falls below the national average of 50.61 inches. However, compared to the rest of North Dakota, Bismarck is in the 95th percentile, showcasing its relatively higher rainfall compared to other areas in the state. Despite lower overall precipitation levels, Bismarck’s weather still offers ample opportunities for harnessing solar energy.
Bismarck’s UV Rating
Considering Bismarck, North Dakota’s average UV rating of 3.44 in the last year, residents can expect a moderate level of sun exposure, falling below the national average of 4.29. When compared to the rest of North Dakota, Bismarck ranks in the 58th percentile. The city’s average max UV rating of 3.55, falling below the national average of 4.61, indicates a consistent level of sunlight that can be utilized effectively for solar energy production.
Bismarck’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 50% cloud cover in the last year, Bismarck, North Dakota finds itself with slightly cloudier skies compared to the national average of 44.46%. However, within the state, Bismarck ranks in the 84th percentile for cloud cover. Despite varying levels of cloudiness throughout the year, there are still plenty of clear days that provide ample sunlight for solar panel efficiency.
Bismarck North Dakota Electricity Costs
Residents of Bismarck, North Dakota pay about $0.1/kw for electricity, aligning closely with the state average. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, Bismarck residents benefit from relatively lower electricity costs. By investing in solar panels, homeowners can further decrease their dependency on traditional electricity sources and save money in the long term.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Bismarck North Dakota?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Bismarck North Dakota, 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:
- Bismarck gets less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings are slightly lower than the national average, but still good for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover is slightly higher than the national average, with variations throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Bismarck pay a bit less for electricity compared to the national average, which is beneficial for solar energy usage.
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 electricity from the grid.
- With Bismarck’s lower electricity rates, the savings will add up over time.
After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 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 offset the investment. Since solar panels last for a long time, you’ll continue to enjoy savings for many years beyond that initial period. Investing in solar energy is an intelligent way to save money and contribute to environmental conservation!
Investing in solar power in Bismarck North Dakota
Investing in solar panels in Bismarck, North Dakota can be a smart financial decision in the long run. By taking advantage of the city’s weather patterns and relatively lower electricity costs, homeowners can expect to break even on their investment in solar energy in approximately 5 years. With the added benefit of continued savings and environmental conservation, switching to solar power is a cost-effective and sustainable choice for residents of Bismarck.