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Solar and Electricity Data for Fulton, SD: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Fulton, SD at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.9/10 6.2/10 9/10 4.3/10 5.2/10
Not Bad 42% daily 2 inches monthly 4 on average 0.12/kw

Overview

Are you looking to save money on your electricity bill while also helping the environment? In Fulton South Dakota, where the weather data shows a high average UV rating and a relatively low percentage of cloud cover, installing solar panels on your home could be a great investment. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, we show you how going solar can lead to significant long-term savings for you and your family.

Fulton South Dakota Weather Trends

Fulton Precipitation

With a low annual precipitation of 27.32 inches, Fulton South Dakota ranks in the 10th percentile nationally and the 7th percentile within the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and South Dakota’s average of 34.67 inches, Fulton’s dry climate makes it an ideal location for solar panel installation.

Fulton’s UV Rating

Fulton South Dakota enjoys an average UV rating of 3.95, placing it in the 43rd percentile nationally and the 70th percentile within the state. While the national average is 4.29 and South Dakota’s average is 3.96, Fulton’s relatively high UV rating means more sunlight for solar panels to harness, increasing energy production potential.

Fulton’s Cloud Cover

With an average cloud cover of 42%, Fulton South Dakota ranks in the 38th percentile nationally and the 57th percentile within the state. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and South Dakota’s average of 40.74%, Fulton’s fewer cloudy days provide consistent sunlight for solar panel efficiency, maximizing energy savings.

Fulton South Dakota Electricity Costs

Residents of Fulton pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, positioning the city in the 52nd percentile nationally and the 67th percentile within South Dakota. In comparison, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, and South Dakota’s average is $0.11/kw. By investing in solar panels, Fulton residents can significantly reduce their electricity bills over time, leading to substantial long-term savings.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Fulton South Dakota?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Fulton, South Dakota, 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:

  • Fulton gets less precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunny days for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in Fulton are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still good for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Fulton is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Fulton pay a bit 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 the lower electricity rates in Fulton, the savings are still significant.

After calculating the numbers, it appears that it would take around 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to compensate for the investment. Additionally, considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the savings will continue for many years beyond that initial period. It’s a wise investment for both saving money and contributing to environmental sustainability!

Investing in solar power in Fulton South Dakota

Installing solar panels in Fulton, South Dakota can be a smart investment for saving money on electricity bills and reducing your environmental impact. With the city’s low precipitation, high UV rating, and relatively low cloud cover, solar panels can efficiently harness sunlight for energy production. Coupled with Fulton’s electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on a solar installation in about 5 years, leading to significant long-term savings for you and your family. By going solar, not only can you save money, but you can also contribute to a greener future.