Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Hawkeye, IA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Hawkeye, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.1/10 4.5/10 8.1/10 3.5/10 9.5/10
Pretty Good 45% daily 3 inches monthly 3.8 on average 0.17/kw

Overview

In Hawkeye Iowa, investing in solar panels for your home can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can estimate the financial benefits of installing a solar system. With the average max UV rating, average UV rating, average percentage cloud cover, and precipitation data over the course of a year, we can determine the potential energy generation and cost savings. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, we can show you how going solar can be a smart financial decision for residents of Hawkeye Iowa.

Hawkeye Iowa Weather Trends

Hawkeye Precipitation

With Hawkeye Iowa receiving 35.7 inches of precipitation in the last year, residents can take advantage of this natural resource to power their homes. Although Hawkeye is in the 19th percentile nationally for precipitation, it falls slightly above the average for Iowa at 36.9 inches. By harnessing the power of rainwater through solar panels, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources and save money in the long run.

Hawkeye’s UV Rating

With an average UV rating of 3.78 in the last year, Hawkeye Iowa may seem to have lower sun exposure compared to other areas. However, when looking at the national and state averages, it is clear that Hawkeye still receives a significant amount of sunlight. By installing solar panels, residents can make the most of the available sunlight and generate clean energy for their homes. With an average max UV rating of 4.03, Hawkeye is in a good position to benefit from solar power.

Hawkeye’s Cloud Cover

Despite an average of 45% cloud cover in the last year, Hawkeye Iowa still has ample opportunities to generate solar energy. While the cloud cover percentage may seem high compared to national and state averages, the number of days with varying degrees of cloud cover provides plenty of chances for solar panels to produce electricity. By capturing sunlight on clear days and still generating energy on cloudy days, residents can maximize their savings and reduce their carbon footprint.

Hawkeye Iowa Electricity Costs

With residents of Hawkeye Iowa paying about $0.17/kw for electricity, it is evident that electricity costs in the area are higher than both the national and state averages. By investing in solar panels, homeowners can take control of their energy costs and potentially save money in the long term. With the ability to produce their own electricity, residents can protect themselves against future utility rate increases and contribute to a more sustainable future for Hawkeye Iowa.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Hawkeye Iowa?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Hawkeye 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:

  • Hawkeye Iowa receives less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Hawkeye Iowa are slightly below the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Hawkeye Iowa is around the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Hawkeye Iowa residents 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 need to purchase from the grid.
  • Given the higher electricity rates in Hawkeye Iowa, the savings are significant.

After calculating the costs and savings, 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 start to offset the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, you’ll continue to benefit from these savings for many years after the initial investment is recovered. Investing in solar panels is not only a smart financial decision but also a way to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Investing in solar power in Hawkeye Iowa

Investing in solar panels in Hawkeye Iowa can lead to significant savings on electricity bills over the long term. By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs specific to the area, we have shown that residents can benefit from harnessing the power of rainwater and sunlight to generate clean energy. With the potential to break even on the initial investment in approximately 7 years, going solar is not only financially wise but also contributes to a more sustainable future for the community. Consider the long-term benefits and savings that come with installing a solar system on your home in Hawkeye Iowa.