Overview
This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in Frankfort, Illinois can save you money on your electricity bill. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to your region, we can estimate how long it will take for a solar system to pay for itself. With the potential for substantial savings on your monthly energy expenses, making the switch to solar power is a smart investment for your wallet and the environment.
Frankfort Illinois Weather Trends
Frankfort Precipitation
In the last year, Frankfort, Illinois received 42.1 inches of precipitation, which is slightly below the national average of 50.61 inches and the state average of 45.69 inches. With a lower amount of precipitation compared to other areas, solar panels in Frankfort are likely to receive more sunlight and generate more energy throughout the year.
Frankfort’s UV Rating
Frankfort, Illinois had an average UV rating of 3.87, putting it below the national average of 4.29 and the state average of 4.21. However, the average max UV rating of 4.18 indicates that there is still plenty of sunlight to harness for solar energy production. Installing solar panels in Frankfort can take advantage of the available sunlight and generate optimal energy savings.
Frankfort’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 46% cloud cover, Frankfort, Illinois sits above the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 44.03%. Despite this, Frankfort still experiences a significant number of clear days suitable for solar energy production. By installing solar panels, residents can make the most of those clear days and reduce their reliance on conventional electricity sources.
Frankfort Illinois Electricity Costs
Frankfort residents pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, which is consistent with the national average but slightly higher than the state average of $0.12/kw. By switching to solar power, residents can reduce their dependence on grid electricity and mitigate the impact of rising energy costs. This transition not only saves money in the long run but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for future generations.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Frankfort Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Frankfort, Illinois, 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:
- Frankfort gets slightly less rain than the national average, which is good for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Frankfort are a bit lower than the national average but still favorable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Frankfort is around the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Frankfort pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, which is in line with 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 and saving money.
- Given Frankfort’s electricity costs, the savings are significant and contribute to the overall return on investment.
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 this timeframe, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting 25-30 years, the savings continue for many years after the initial payback period. Investing in solar panels not only saves money but also supports sustainability in the long run.
Investing in solar power in Frankfort Illinois
Installing solar panels in Frankfort, Illinois is a wise decision for both financial savings and environmental benefits. By harnessing the available sunlight in a region with favorable weather conditions and slightly higher electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on their investment in around 5-6 years. With solar panels lasting up to 30 years, the long-term savings and sustainability make switching to solar power a smart choice for those looking to reduce their energy bills and contribute to a cleaner future.