Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Independence, MO: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Independence, MO at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.9/10 8.3/10 6.5/10 6.6/10 7.9/10
Pretty Good 37% daily 4 inches monthly 4.6 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in Independence, Missouri can save you money on your electricity bills. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Independence, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even. With the financial benefits of solar energy, you can make a smart investment that will pay off in the long run.

Independence Missouri Weather Trends

Independence Precipitation

With Independence, Missouri receiving 43.67 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls below the national average of 50.61 inches. However, it is still higher than the state average of 47.04 inches. This means that Independence residents have a moderate amount of rainfall compared to the rest of the country and Missouri.

Independence’s UV Rating

Independence, Missouri has an average UV rating of 4.57, ranking higher than both the national average of 4.29 and the state average of 4.59. Additionally, the city’s max UV rating of 4.99 is above the national average of 4.61. This indicates that Independence residents receive a healthy amount of sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy.

Independence’s Cloud Cover

With an average cloud cover of 37%, Independence, Missouri experiences less cloud coverage compared to the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 39.07%. This means that residents have more sunny days, which is beneficial for maximizing solar energy production. Additionally, the distribution of cloud cover throughout the year allows for plenty of opportunities to generate solar power.

Independence Missouri Electricity Costs

Independence residents pay around $0.13/kw for electricity, which is slightly higher than the national average of $0.13/kw but above the state average of $0.11/kw. Despite the higher cost, investing in solar panels can help reduce electricity expenses in the long run, especially with Independence’s favorable weather conditions for solar energy production.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Independence Missouri?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Independence Missouri, 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:

  • Independence Missouri receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Independence Missouri are higher than the national average, which is great for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Independence Missouri is lower than the national average, with many days having clear skies.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Independence Missouri pay the national average for electricity, making it a good choice for investing in solar power.

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 to be purchased from the grid.
  • With the average electricity costs, the savings from using solar power will start adding up quickly.

After analyzing the data, you can expect to break even on your investment in solar panels in approximately 4-6 years. This means that after this period, the savings on your electricity bills will start to pay off the initial investment. And since solar panels last for many years, you will continue to enjoy these savings for a long time, making it a beneficial financial decision in the long run.

Investing in solar power in Independence Missouri

By assessing the weather trends and electricity costs in Independence, Missouri, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant savings on electricity bills. The city’s moderate precipitation, high UV ratings, and low cloud cover create ideal conditions for harnessing solar energy. With residents paying around $0.13/kw for electricity, a standard 10kW solar system costing $20,000 can break even in approximately 4-6 years. This smart investment can not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a greener environment. So, by installing solar panels in Independence, you can both financially benefit and make a positive impact.