Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Brandon, IA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Brandon, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.8/10 3.5/10 7.8/10 3.9/10 8.7/10
Not Bad 47% daily 3 inches monthly 3.9 on average 0.14/kw

Overview

Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills in Brandon, Iowa? Installing solar panels on your home can be a great way to do just that. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Brandon, we can show you how much you can potentially save by making the switch to solar energy. With the cost of solar systems decreasing and the financial incentives available, you may be surprised at how quickly you can start seeing a return on your investment. Let’s break down the numbers and see how solar power can benefit you financially in the long run.

Brandon Iowa Weather Trends

Brandon Precipitation

With Brandon Iowa receiving 37.18 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s important to note that this puts Brandon in the 22nd percentile in the nation and the 66th percentile in Iowa. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches, Brandon experiences relatively moderate rainfall. By harnessing this precipitation to generate solar energy, you can potentially save significant amounts on your electricity bills in the long run.

Brandon’s UV Rating

In the last year, Brandon Iowa had an average UV rating of 3.86, placing it in the 39th percentile in the nation and the 16th percentile in Iowa. When considering the national average of 4.29 and Iowa’s average of 4.06 for UV rating, Brandon’s levels are slightly lower. However, with an average max UV rating of 4.15 (36th percentile in the nation and 24th percentile in Iowa), there is still sufficient sunlight to power your solar panels efficiently and effectively.

Brandon’s Cloud Cover

Brandon Iowa had an average of 47% cloud cover in the last year, positioning it in the 65th percentile in the nation and the 96th percentile in Iowa. Even though there are a significant number of cloudy days, it’s essential to recognize that Brandon still experiences ample sunshine for solar energy production. With 105 days of clear skies and 101 days with moderate cloud cover, there are plenty of opportunities to harness the sun’s energy for your benefit.

Brandon Iowa Electricity Costs

Residents of Brandon Iowa currently pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, ranking the city in the 87th percentile in the nation and the 77th percentile in Iowa. While this is slightly higher than the national and state averages of $0.13/kw, transitioning to solar power can help you combat rising electricity costs and ultimately save money over time. By investing in solar panels for your home, you can take control of your energy expenses and reduce your reliance on traditional grid electricity.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Brandon Iowa?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Brandon Iowa, 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:

  • Brandon Iowa receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Brandon Iowa are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Brandon Iowa is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Brandon Iowa 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 electricity costs slightly higher in Brandon Iowa, the savings will be significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this time, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond this period, you’ll continue to benefit from these savings. It’s a wise financial decision that also contributes to a sustainable future!

Investing in solar power in Brandon Iowa

By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Brandon, Iowa, it is evident that investing in solar panels can be a financially beneficial decision. With moderate precipitation, sufficient UV exposure, and a good balance of cloud cover, Brandon provides an ideal environment for generating solar energy. Additionally, while residents pay slightly more for electricity, the savings from using solar power can help offset this cost over time. Based on the data, it’s estimated that it could take around 5-6 years to break even on the initial investment in solar panels. Beyond that point, you can continue to enjoy the savings and contribute to a more sustainable future. Installing solar panels in Brandon, Iowa, is a smart investment that not only saves you money but also helps protect the environment in the long run.