Overview
In Cushing, Iowa, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. With the data collected over 365 days showing favorable weather conditions for solar energy generation, along with the basic electricity cost in the area, we break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it would take to break even. Making the switch to solar power can not only help the environment but also save you money in the long run.
Cushing Iowa Weather Trends
Cushing Precipitation
In the last year, Cushing Iowa received 38.68 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 25th percentile in the nation and the 82nd percentile in Iowa. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Iowa’s average is slightly lower at 36.9 inches. Despite not being the wettest location, Cushing still sees a decent amount of rainfall which can contribute to solar panel efficiency.
Cushing’s UV Rating
In the last year, Cushing Iowa had an average UV rating of 3.91, placing it in the 41st percentile in the nation and the 26th percentile in Iowa. Nationally, the average UV rating is 4.29, with Iowa slightly lower at 4.06. Additionally, the average max UV rating in Cushing was 4.2, putting it in the 37th percentile in the nation and the 30th percentile in Iowa. These UV ratings indicate that Cushing receives a good amount of sunlight, making it a suitable location for solar panel installation.
Cushing’s Cloud Cover
Over the last year, Cushing Iowa had an average of 44% cloud cover, ranking it in the 49th percentile in the nation and the 72nd percentile in Iowa. Comparatively, the national average for average cloud cover is 44.46%, with Iowa’s average slightly lower at 42.8%. With a good number of days with clear skies and low cloud cover, Cushing provides ample sunlight for solar panels to generate electricity efficiently.
Cushing Iowa Electricity Costs
Cushing Iowa residents pay about $0.1/kw for electricity, placing them in the 6th percentile in the nation and the 3rd percentile in Iowa. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, with Iowa’s average also at $0.13/kw. By installing solar panels, Cushing residents can significantly reduce their electricity costs and take advantage of the sunny climate to generate their own renewable energy.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Cushing Iowa?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Cushing 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:
- Cushing Iowa receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings are lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Cushing Iowa is around the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Cushing Iowa pay slightly less 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 purchased from the grid.
- With lower electricity rates in Cushing Iowa, the savings may take a bit longer to recoup the initial cost.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6-7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, you will continue to benefit from these savings for many years. It’s a wise financial decision that also contributes to a cleaner environment!
Investing in solar power in Cushing Iowa
Installing solar panels in Cushing, Iowa can lead to significant financial benefits due to favorable weather conditions for solar energy generation and low electricity costs in the area. By analyzing the data, it is estimated that it would take approximately 6-7 years to break even on the initial investment in solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate, providing long-term savings and environmental benefits. Making the switch to solar power is not only a smart financial choice but also a step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.