Overview
Are you a resident of Cherokee, North Carolina looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a great investment for you! In this article, we will break down the financial benefits of installing a solar system in Cherokee, using weather data collected over 365 days, basic electricity costs, and estimates on how long it will take for you to break even on your investment. With the potential for significant savings, going solar could be a smart choice for your home.
Cherokee North Carolina Weather Trends
Cherokee Precipitation
With 70.82 inches of precipitation in the last year, Cherokee, North Carolina ranks higher than most of the country and the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and North Carolina’s average of 65.54 inches, Cherokee’s higher precipitation levels make it an ideal location for generating solar energy.
Cherokee’s UV Rating
Cherokee, North Carolina boasts an average UV rating of 4.01, placing it slightly below the national and state averages. While the national average UV rating is 4.29 and North Carolina’s average is 4.72, Cherokee’s moderate UV levels still provide ample sunlight for solar panel efficiency.
Cherokee’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 48%, Cherokee, North Carolina experiences less cloud coverage compared to the national and state averages. Despite the national average of 44.46% and North Carolina’s average of 42.57%, Cherokee’s relatively clear skies for 89 days with minimal cloud cover make it a prime location for solar energy production.
Cherokee North Carolina Electricity Costs
Residents of Cherokee, North Carolina enjoy affordable electricity costs at $0.12/kw, which aligns closely with the state average. With the national average at $0.13/kw, Cherokee’s lower than average electricity rates make switching to solar an even more attractive and cost-effective option for long-term savings.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Cherokee North Carolina?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Cherokee North Carolina, 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:
- Cherokee North Carolina receives more precipitation than the national average, making it a good candidate for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Cherokee North Carolina are slightly lower than the national average but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Cherokee North Carolina is slightly higher than the national average but varies throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Cherokee North Carolina pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which can affect the savings from solar panels.
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 purchased from the grid.
- With Cherokee North Carolina’s electricity rates, the savings could accumulate over time.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it may take around 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Keep in mind that solar panels have a long lifespan, so after this period, the savings will continue for many more years. Investing in solar energy not only saves money but also benefits the environment in the long run.
Investing in solar power in Cherokee North Carolina
Based on the data presented, installing solar panels in Cherokee, North Carolina could be a wise financial decision for residents looking to save money on electricity bills. With higher precipitation levels, moderate UV ratings, and minimal cloud cover, Cherokee provides an ideal environment for generating solar energy. Additionally, the relatively low electricity costs in the area make switching to solar an even more cost-effective option for long-term savings. Considering all these factors, it is estimated that residents could break even on their solar panel investment in around 5-6 years. This initial investment not only offers financial benefits but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.