Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Jackson, MI: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Jackson, MI at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.8/10 7.6/10 3.3/10 8.8/10 9.3/10
Pretty Good 39% daily 5 inches monthly 5.5 on average 0.15/kw

Overview

In Jackson, Michigan, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Jackson, we can estimate how long it will take for a solar system to pay for itself. With a breakdown of costs and savings, you can see the potential for long-term savings on your electricity bills.

Jackson Michigan Weather Trends

Jackson Precipitation

With Jackson, Michigan receiving 58.4 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area has a relatively high amount of rainfall. Compared to the rest of the country, Jackson falls in the 67th percentile, indicating it receives more precipitation than most other regions. In comparison to the rest of Michigan, Jackson is in the 99th percentile, experiencing significantly more rainfall than other parts of the state. This abundance of rain can be beneficial for solar panels as they can still generate electricity even on cloudy days.

Jackson’s UV Rating

Jackson, Michigan boasts an average UV rating of 5.45, placing it in the 88th percentile nationwide and the 99th percentile within the state. This high UV rating means that Jackson receives ample sunlight, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation. In comparison to the national average of 4.29, Jackson has a higher UV rating, indicating more potential for solar energy generation. Similarly, when compared to Michigan’s average UV rating of 3.43, Jackson outshines other areas in terms of solar energy potential.

Jackson’s Cloud Cover

With an average cloud cover of 39% in the last year, Jackson, Michigan experiences relatively clear skies which are optimal for solar energy generation. Compared to the national average of 44.46%, Jackson’s lower cloud cover percentage places it in the 24th percentile across the country. When compared to the rest of Michigan where the average cloud cover is 52.98%, Jackson is in the 2nd percentile. This lower cloud cover means more sunlight reaches the solar panels, increasing their efficiency and energy production.

Jackson Michigan Electricity Costs

Residents of Jackson, Michigan pay around $0.15/kwh for electricity, which is above the national average of $0.13/kwh. However, in comparison to the rest of Michigan, Jackson’s electricity costs are in the 33rd percentile. This higher electricity cost in Jackson makes solar panels an attractive investment as they can help offset the electricity expenses over time, leading to long-term savings. Additionally, considering the abundant sunlight and lower cloud cover in Jackson, installing solar panels can be a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly choice for homeowners.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Jackson Michigan?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Jackson, Michigan, 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:

  • Jackson gets slightly more precipitation than the national average, but still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in Jackson are higher than the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Jackson is lower than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Jackson pay a bit 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 as much from the grid.
  • Given Jackson’s higher electricity rates, the savings are significant.

After calculations, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means, after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. Moreover, since solar panels have a long lifespan, those savings will continue for many years ahead. Investing in solar power is a practical way to save money and contribute to environmental preservation.

Investing in solar power in Jackson Michigan

Installing solar panels in Jackson, Michigan can bring about substantial financial benefits due to the area’s weather trends and electricity costs. With an abundance of sunlight, lower cloud cover, and higher UV ratings, solar panels in Jackson have great potential for generating electricity. Additionally, the slightly higher electricity costs in Jackson make solar panels an attractive investment, with the initial cost typically paid off in around 5 years. Not only can homeowners save money in the long run, but they can also contribute to environmental conservation by opting for solar energy.