Overview
In Folsom, West Virginia, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to our area, we can show you how much you can save by harnessing the power of the sun. We will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even, making the decision to go solar a smart investment for your home and your wallet.
Folsom West Virginia Weather Trends
Folsom Precipitation
In the last year, Folsom West Virginia received 61.46 inches of precipitation, placing it in the 73rd percentile in the nation and the 70th percentile in West Virginia. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and West Virginia’s average of 57.58 inches, Folsom experiences higher levels of precipitation. By harnessing solar power, residents can take advantage of this abundant natural resource even on rainy days.
Folsom’s UV Rating
In the last year, Folsom West Virginia had an average UV rating of 3.81, positioning it in the 36th percentile in the nation and the 30th percentile in West Virginia. With national and state averages of 4.29 and 4.01, respectively, Folsom receives slightly lower UV ratings. However, even at this level, solar panels can still efficiently generate electricity from sunlight. The higher max UV rating of 4.17 further emphasizes the solar potential in Folsom.
Folsom’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 53% cloud cover in the last year, Folsom West Virginia is in the 83rd percentile in the nation and the 70th percentile in West Virginia. While higher cloud cover may reduce direct sunlight exposure, modern solar panels are designed to capture diffuse light as well. Folsom’s mix of cloud cover days provides a balance that allows for consistent solar energy production throughout the year.
Folsom West Virginia Electricity Costs
Folsom residents pay about $0.11/kw for electricity, placing them in the 35th percentile in the nation and the 33rd percentile in West Virginia. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw and West Virginia’s average of $0.12/kw, Folsom enjoys lower electricity costs. By installing solar panels, residents can further reduce their electricity bills and potentially generate excess energy to sell back to the grid, providing additional financial savings in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Folsom West Virginia?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Folsom, West Virginia, 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:
- Folsom, West Virginia, receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Folsom are a bit lower than the national average, but they are still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Folsom is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Folsom, West Virginia, 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 needed from the grid.
- With Folsom’s lower electricity rates, the savings are significant.
After running the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, solar panels have a long lifespan, so after that initial period, you’ll continue to enjoy those savings for many years. Investing in solar panels is a wise way to save money and contribute to environmental preservation at the same time!
Investing in solar power in Folsom West Virginia
After analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Folsom, West Virginia, it is evident that installing solar panels can result in significant financial benefits for residents. With higher than average precipitation levels, slightly lower UV ratings, and varying cloud cover, Folsom still experiences enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective. Additionally, residents enjoy lower electricity costs, making solar energy a cost-effective investment. Based on the calculations, it would take approximately 5 years to break even on the initial cost of a solar system, after which residents can continue to save money for many more years. Choosing solar power is not only a smart financial decision but also a step towards a more sustainable future.