Overview
In Fort Shaw, Montana, installing solar panels on your home can help you save money on electricity bills while reducing your carbon footprint. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we can show you how a solar system can pay for itself over time. Discover how harnessing the power of the sun can benefit both your wallet and the environment in Fort Shaw.
Fort Shaw Montana Weather Trends
Fort Shaw Precipitation
In the last year, Fort Shaw Montana received 22.59 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 7th percentile in the nation and the 26th percentile in Montana. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Montana’s average is 28.52 inches. With lower precipitation rates than both the national and state averages, Fort Shaw’s dry climate makes it an ideal location for solar panel installation.
Fort Shaw’s UV Rating
Fort Shaw Montana had an average UV rating of 3.54 in the last year, placing it in the 20th percentile in the nation and the 64th percentile in Montana. The national average for UV rating is 4.29, while Montana’s average is 3.4. Additionally, Fort Shaw had an average max UV rating of 3.79, ranking it in the 25th percentile in the nation and the 68th percentile in Montana. These UV ratings indicate ample sunlight for solar energy production in Fort Shaw.
Fort Shaw’s Cloud Cover
In the last year, Fort Shaw Montana had an average of 39% cloud cover, positioning it in the 23rd percentile in the nation and the 41st percentile in Montana. The national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, while Montana’s average is 41.59%. With a significant number of days having low cloud cover percentages, Fort Shaw offers clear skies that are conducive to efficient solar panel operation.
Fort Shaw Montana Electricity Costs
Fort Shaw residents pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, placing them in the 57th percentile in the nation and the 75th percentile in Montana. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw for residential electricity, Fort Shaw’s lower costs make switching to solar panels a financially sound decision. By investing in solar energy, residents can offset their electricity expenses and contribute to a greener environment.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Fort Shaw Montana?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Fort Shaw, Montana, 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:
- Fort Shaw gets less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Fort Shaw are slightly lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Fort Shaw is slightly lower than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Fort Shaw pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which is beneficial for the investment in 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 need to buy as much from the grid, especially with Fort Shaw’s lower electricity rates.
After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would 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 accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for up to 30 years, the savings will continue for many years beyond the payback period. Investing in solar power in Fort Shaw is a smart way to save money and contribute to a greener future!
Investing in solar power in Fort Shaw Montana
Installing solar panels in Fort Shaw, Montana can be a wise decision for both your finances and the environment. With lower precipitation rates, ample sunlight, and clear skies, Fort Shaw provides an ideal climate for solar panel operation. Additionally, residents in Fort Shaw pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, making the switch to solar a financially sound choice. By investing in solar energy, you can expect to break even on the initial cost in around 5-6 years and enjoy long-term savings while reducing your carbon footprint. Make the smart choice for your wallet and the planet by harnessing the power of the sun in Fort Shaw!