Overview
Living in Circle, Alaska, you can take advantage of the abundant sunlight to save on your electricity bill by installing solar panels on your home. By analyzing a year’s worth of weather data and electricity costs, we will show you just how much money you can save over time. With the initial cost of a solar system outlined and the estimated time to break even, this article will demonstrate the financial benefits of going solar in Circle, Alaska.
Circle Alaska Weather Trends
Circle Precipitation
In the last year, Circle Alaska received 15.84 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 3rd percentile in the nation and the 4th percentile in Alaska. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Circle’s lower precipitation levels make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently. With less rain to block out the sun, solar panels in Circle can generate more electricity consistently throughout the year.
Circle’s UV Rating
Circle Alaska had an average UV rating of 1.71 in the last year, which places it in the 0th percentile in the nation and the 41st percentile in Alaska. Although the UV rating is lower compared to the national average of 4.29, Circle still receives enough sunlight to make solar panels a viable energy source. With an average max UV rating of 2.38, Circle’s sunny days contribute to increased energy production from solar panels.
Circle’s Cloud Cover
Circle Alaska had an average of 67% cloud cover in the last year, putting it in the 99th percentile in the nation and the 37th percentile in Alaska. While high cloud cover may impact solar energy generation, Circle still has clear days for solar panels to capture sunlight effectively. With varying levels of cloud cover throughout the year, residents can benefit from solar energy even on partially cloudy days.
Circle Alaska Electricity Costs
Circle Alaska residents pay about $0.25/kw for electricity, positioning the city in the 100th percentile in the nation and the 67th percentile in Alaska. Though the electricity cost is higher compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, investing in solar panels can significantly reduce monthly electricity bills. By harnessing the abundant sunlight in Circle, residents can save money on energy costs in the long run and reduce their environmental footprint.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Circle Alaska?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Circle Alaska, 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:
- Circle Alaska receives less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Circle Alaska are lower than the national average, but still effective for generating solar power.
- Circle Alaska has a higher average cloud cover compared to the national average, with a significant number of days having 75-100% cloud cover.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Circle Alaska pay more for electricity compared to the national average, with a rate of $0.25/kw.
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:
- By generating electricity from the solar panels, residents in Circle Alaska can reduce the amount they need to purchase from the grid.
- Given the higher electricity costs in Circle Alaska, the savings from using solar power will be substantial.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 8-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 8-10 years, the savings on electricity bills will start to make up for the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, residents in Circle Alaska can enjoy these savings for many years after the initial payback period. It’s a smart financial and environmental choice for the long term!
Investing in solar power in Circle Alaska
Living in Circle, Alaska provides ample opportunities to harness the power of solar energy and save money on electricity bills. By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Circle, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant financial benefits over time. With lower precipitation levels, sufficient sunlight, and the potential for substantial savings on electricity expenses, residents can expect to break even on their solar installation in about 8-10 years. Beyond that initial payback period, the long lifespan of solar panels ensures continued savings and a more sustainable future. Choosing solar power in Circle, Alaska is not only a wise financial decision but also an environmentally conscious one that can benefit both residents and the planet in the long term.