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Solar and Electricity Data for Foster, RI: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Foster, RI at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.3/10 2.5/10 1.2/10 2.7/10 9.9/10
Not Bad 50% daily 6 inches monthly 3.7 on average 0.22/kw

Overview

In Foster, Rhode Island, installing solar panels on your home can be a smart financial decision. By analyzing a year’s worth of weather data and electricity costs, we break down the potential savings that come with harnessing the power of the sun. With factors like precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover in mind, we estimate how long it will take for your investment in a solar system to pay off. Explore the financial benefits of going solar in Foster, Rhode Island, and see how it can help you save money in the long run.

Foster Rhode Island Weather Trends

Foster Precipitation

With Foster, Rhode Island receiving 69.9 inches of precipitation in the last year, it ranks in the 88th percentile in the nation and the 43rd percentile in Rhode Island. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and Rhode Island’s average of 70.49 inches, Foster’s higher precipitation levels make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently.

Foster’s UV Rating

Having an average UV rating of 3.66 places Foster in the 27th percentile in the nation and the 30th percentile in Rhode Island. Comparing this to the national average of 4.29 and Rhode Island’s average of 3.7, Foster’s moderate UV levels offer ample sunlight for generating solar power. Additionally, Foster’s average max UV rating of 3.94 further supports the viability of solar panel installation.

Foster’s Cloud Cover

With an average of 50% cloud cover, Foster Rhode Island ranks in the 75th percentile in the nation and the 84th percentile in Rhode Island. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Rhode Island’s average of 49.35%, Foster experiences fewer cloudy days, making it an optimal location for consistent solar energy production. Depending on cloud cover, solar panels in Foster can maximize energy generation.

Foster Rhode Island Electricity Costs

Residents in Foster, Rhode Island pay about $0.22/kw for electricity, placing them in the 99th percentile in the nation and the 67th percentile in Rhode Island. When compared to the national average of $0.13/kw and Rhode Island’s average of $0.22/kw, Foster residents can significantly save on electricity costs by investing in solar panels for their homes, providing long-term financial benefits and helping the environment.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Foster Rhode Island?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Foster Rhode Island, 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:

  • Foster Rhode Island receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Foster Rhode Island is about average for the country, with variations throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Foster Rhode Island 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.
  • Given Foster Rhode Island’s higher electricity rates, the savings are more significant.

After analyzing 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. Moreover, solar panels have a long lifespan, so after this initial period, you can enjoy savings for many more years. It’s a wise investment for both saving money and helping the environment!

Investing in solar power in Foster Rhode Island

In Foster, Rhode Island, investing in solar panels can lead to significant financial savings over time. With above-average precipitation, moderate UV ratings, and lower-than-average cloud cover, the conditions are ideal for harnessing solar energy efficiently. In addition, residents paying higher-than-average electricity costs can benefit greatly from using solar power, potentially breaking even on the initial investment in just 5 years. By going solar in Foster, Rhode Island, not only can you save money in the long run, but you can also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.