Overview
Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills in Eagle River, Alaska? Installing solar panels on your home could be the solution you’ve been looking for. By taking a closer look at the weather data and average electricity costs specific to Eagle River, we can show you just how much you could save by making the switch to solar energy. With a breakdown of the costs involved and an estimate of how quickly you could break even, this article will make a compelling case for why going solar is a smart financial decision for Eagle River residents.
Eagle River Alaska Weather Trends
Eagle River Precipitation
With Eagle River, Alaska receiving 44.97 inches of precipitation last year, it falls in the 38th percentile in the nation and the 66th percentile in Alaska. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Eagle River experiences slightly less rainfall. While Alaska’s average of 57.06 inches is higher, Eagle River’s precipitation levels are still relatively moderate.
Eagle River’s UV Rating
Eagle River, Alaska had an average UV rating of 2.17 in the last year, placing it in the 0th percentile nationwide and the 85th percentile within Alaska. Although this rating is lower than the national average of 4.29, it is higher than Alaska’s average of 1.83. With an average max UV rating of 2.14, Eagle River is still receiving a decent amount of sunlight for solar panel efficiency.
Eagle River’s Cloud Cover
Last year, Eagle River, Alaska had an average of 63% cloud cover, ranking it in the 98th percentile in the nation and the 11th percentile in Alaska. While this may seem high, the national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, with Alaska’s average at 67.94%. Despite some cloudy days, Eagle River still has plenty of sunlight to harness for solar energy.
Eagle River Alaska Electricity Costs
Residents of Eagle River pay about $0.21/kw for electricity, placing the city in the 99th percentile nationwide and the 39th percentile within Alaska. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, Eagle River’s electricity costs are higher. However, they are lower than Alaska’s average of $0.34/kw. By installing solar panels, residents can offset these costs and save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Eagle River Alaska?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Eagle River 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:
- Eagle River Alaska receives less precipitation than the national average, with a slightly lower UV rating and more cloud cover.
- This weather data indicates that solar panels can still work effectively in this area.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Eagle River Alaska pay 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.
- Considering the higher electricity rates in Eagle River Alaska, the potential savings are significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take about 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. With solar panels lasting for 25 to 30 years, this investment promises long-term savings and environmental benefits. It’s a wise financial and eco-friendly choice in the long run!
Investing in solar power in Eagle River Alaska
After analyzing the data related to weather trends and electricity costs in Eagle River, Alaska, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant savings for residents. Despite the slightly lower UV rating and more cloud cover in the area, solar panels can still effectively harness sunlight for energy. With electricity costs higher than the national average, the potential savings from using solar power are substantial. It is estimated that it would take approximately 6 years to break even on the initial cost of installing solar panels. This investment not only promises long-term financial benefits but also contributes to a more eco-friendly and sustainable future for Eagle River residents.