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Solar and Electricity Data for Butterfield, MN: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Butterfield, MN at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.9/10 3.2/10 6.5/10 2.5/10 7.3/10
Not Bad 49% daily 4 inches monthly 3.6 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

In Butterfield, Minnesota, installing solar panels can not only benefit the environment but also save residents money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Butterfield, we will show you how a solar system can help you break even and start saving on your energy bills. Let’s dive into the financial benefits of going solar in Butterfield.

Butterfield Minnesota Weather Trends

Butterfield Precipitation

In Butterfield, Minnesota, the amount of precipitation received in the last year was 43.73 inches. This places Butterfield in the 35th percentile nationwide and the 95th percentile within Minnesota. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Minnesota’s average of 37.31 inches, Butterfield experiences a moderate amount of precipitation.

Butterfield’s UV Rating

When it comes to UV ratings, Butterfield, Minnesota had an average rating of 3.62 in the last year, placing it in the 25th percentile nationally and the 55th percentile within Minnesota. The national average is 4.29, while Minnesota’s average UV rating is 3.6. Additionally, Butterfield had an average max UV rating of 3.83, below the national average of 4.61, but slightly above Minnesota’s average of 3.79.

Butterfield’s Cloud Cover

Butterfield, Minnesota experienced an average cloud cover of 49% in the last year, placing it in the 68th percentile nationally and the 56th percentile within Minnesota. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Minnesota’s average of 48.96%, Butterfield has a slightly higher cloud cover. The distribution of cloud cover days shows the variety of conditions throughout the year in Butterfield.

Butterfield Minnesota Electricity Costs

Residents in Butterfield, Minnesota pay around $0.13/kw for electricity, which places them in the 73rd percentile nationally and the 52nd percentile within Minnesota. This is consistent with the national average for residential electricity costs. Considering the potential savings from installing solar panels, Butterfield residents can take advantage of their moderate electricity costs to see long-term benefits.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Butterfield Minnesota?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Butterfield Minnesota, 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:

  • Butterfield Minnesota receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panel efficiency.
  • The UV ratings in Butterfield Minnesota are a bit lower than the national average, but still adequate for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Butterfield Minnesota is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Butterfield Minnesota pay the national average for electricity, which is lower compared to some other areas.

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 as much from the grid.
  • With average electricity costs, the savings from using solar power will still add up over time.

After calculating the numbers, it seems that it would take approximately 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Butterfield Minnesota. This means that after 5-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for 25-30 years, the long-term savings and benefits are substantial. Investing in solar energy not only saves money in the long run but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of living.

Investing in solar power in Butterfield Minnesota

After analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Butterfield, Minnesota, it is evident that installing solar panels can be a wise investment. With moderate precipitation, adequate UV ratings, and slightly higher cloud cover, Butterfield provides suitable conditions for solar panel efficiency. Additionally, residents paying the national average for electricity can benefit from long-term savings by going solar. The calculations show that it would take approximately 5-6 years to break even on the initial cost of a solar system, leading to significant savings over its 25-30 year lifespan. Therefore, embracing solar energy not only saves money but also promotes a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle in Butterfield.