Overview
Are you tired of high electricity bills and looking for a way to save money while being environmentally-friendly? In this article, we will explore the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home in Garrison Iowa. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment. Discover how going solar can help you save money in the long run while reducing your carbon footprint.
Garrison Iowa Weather Trends
Garrison Precipitation
With Garrison Iowa receiving 34.28 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls in the 27th percentile in Iowa and the 17th percentile nationally. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Iowa’s average stands at 36.9 inches. By having lower precipitation levels, Garrison’s sunny days make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy.
Garrison’s UV Rating
In the last year, Garrison Iowa had an average UV rating of 3.98, placing it in the 42nd percentile in Iowa and the 45th percentile in the nation. When compared to the national average of 4.29 and Iowa’s average of 4.06, Garrison’s UV ratings are still conducive for generating solar power. Additionally, with an average max UV rating of 4.3, Garrison continues to have favorable conditions for solar energy production.
Garrison’s Cloud Cover
Garrison Iowa experienced an average of 44% cloud cover in the last year, ranking it in the 78th percentile in Iowa and the 51st percentile nationally. With lower cloud cover than both the national average of 44.46% and Iowa’s average of 42.8%, Garrison has more sunny days that can maximize solar panel efficiency. Furthermore, the distribution of cloud cover throughout the year provides ample opportunities for solar energy production.
Garrison Iowa Electricity Costs
Residents of Garrison Iowa are paying around $0.14/kw for electricity, positioning Garrison in the 77th percentile in the state and the 87th percentile nationwide. Comparatively, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, as well as Iowa’s average of $0.13/kw. By switching to solar energy, Garrison residents can not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Garrison Iowa?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Garrison Iowa, 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:
- Garrison Iowa receives less precipitation than the national average, making it suitable for solar panel installations.
- The UV ratings in Garrison Iowa are slightly below the national average, but still conducive to generating solar power.
- The cloud cover in Garrison Iowa is around the national average, with varying degrees throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Garrison Iowa pay slightly 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 and resulting in savings.
- Given Garrison Iowa’s higher electricity rates, the savings are amplified.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Moreover, since solar panels have a long lifespan, these savings can be enjoyed for many years beyond the payback period. Investing in solar energy is a wise financial decision that also contributes positively to the environment.
Investing in solar power in Garrison Iowa
Installing solar panels in Garrison Iowa can be a financially savvy decision that also benefits the environment. With lower precipitation levels, plenty of sunny days, and moderate cloud cover, Garrison is an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. Additionally, residents paying slightly more for electricity than the national average can see significant savings over time. By analyzing the data, it becomes clear that investing in a solar system could pay off in approximately 7 years and continue to provide savings for decades to come. Choosing solar power not only saves money but also helps in reducing your carbon footprint, making it a smart choice for your home in Garrison Iowa.