Overview
Are you considering making the switch to solar energy in Harrisburg, Oregon? By analyzing weather data and electricity costs over the course of a year, we can show you the potential financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home. With a breakdown of the cost of a solar system and an estimate of how long it will take to break even, you can see just how much you could save by harnessing the power of the sun. Let’s explore the money-saving possibilities of going solar in Harrisburg.
Harrisburg Oregon Weather Trends
Harrisburg Precipitation
With Harrisburg, Oregon receiving 59.52 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls above the national average of 50.61 inches. Compared to the rest of Oregon, Harrisburg is also slightly wetter. By harnessing solar energy, you can offset your carbon footprint and reduce reliance on electricity generated from nonrenewable sources.
Harrisburg’s UV Rating
With an average UV rating of 3.79, Harrisburg, Oregon enjoys moderate sun exposure. While it may not be the sunniest city in the nation, it still receives a decent amount of sunlight throughout the year. By installing solar panels, you can take advantage of this natural resource to power your home and lower your electricity bills.
Harrisburg’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 49%, Harrisburg, Oregon experiences its fair share of cloudy days. However, there are still plenty of days with minimal cloud cover, providing ample opportunity for solar energy production. By investing in solar panels, you can generate your electricity during sunny days and save on your monthly electricity costs.
Harrisburg Oregon Electricity Costs
At $0.11/kw, Harrisburg, Oregon residents pay slightly below the national average for electricity. By switching to solar power, you can lock in your electricity costs and protect yourself from future rate hikes. Over time, the savings from generating your electricity through solar panels will outweigh the initial investment, leading to long-term financial benefits.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Harrisburg Oregon?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Harrisburg Oregon, 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:
- Harrisburg Oregon receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has sufficient sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
- The UV ratings in Harrisburg Oregon are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still adequate for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Harrisburg Oregon is slightly higher than the national average, with 131 days of fairly clear skies.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Harrisburg Oregon pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.11/kw.
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 Harrisburg Oregon’s electricity rates, the savings from using solar power will be significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 9 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Harrisburg Oregon. This means that after 9 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings in electricity costs will continue for many years beyond that initial period. Investing in solar power is not only a smart financial decision but also a step towards a more sustainable future.
Investing in solar power in Harrisburg Oregon
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Harrisburg, Oregon, switching to solar power can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. Despite receiving slightly more precipitation and having a higher cloud cover compared to national averages, Harrisburg still has enough sunlight for solar panels to work effectively. Residents pay below the national average for electricity, making solar power a viable option for long-term savings. With an estimated break-even period of around 9 years for a standard solar system, the financial benefits of going solar in Harrisburg are promising. By harnessing the power of the sun, you can not only save money but also contribute to a greener future for the community.