Overview
If you live in Jacksonville, North Carolina, you may be wondering if installing solar panels on your home is worth it financially. In this article, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Jacksonville, we will show you the potential financial benefits of making the switch to solar energy.
Jacksonville North Carolina Weather Trends
Jacksonville Precipitation
In the last year, Jacksonville North Carolina received 72.09 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 91st percentile in the nation and the 80th percentile in North Carolina. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while North Carolina’s average is 65.54 inches. With higher precipitation levels, installing solar panels in Jacksonville can take advantage of this natural resource to generate more clean energy.
Jacksonville’s UV Rating
Over the past year, Jacksonville North Carolina had an average UV rating of 5.06, placing it in the 79th percentile nationally and the 89th percentile in the state. In comparison, the national average for average UV rating is 4.29, while North Carolina’s average is 4.72. Additionally, Jacksonville had an average max UV rating of 5.39, highlighting the region’s potential for solar energy generation. With higher UV ratings, installing solar panels in Jacksonville can maximize energy production efficiency.
Jacksonville’s Cloud Cover
In the last year, Jacksonville North Carolina experienced an average of 42% cloud cover, ranking it in the 41st percentile nationally and the 69th percentile in North Carolina. When compared to the national average of 44.46% and North Carolina’s average of 42.57%, Jacksonville offers relatively clear skies for solar energy generation. With a significant number of days featuring low cloud cover levels, installing solar panels in Jacksonville can capitalize on consistent sunlight for energy production.
Jacksonville North Carolina Electricity Costs
Residents in Jacksonville North Carolina pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, placing the city in the 47th percentile nationally and the 33rd percentile in North Carolina. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while North Carolina’s average is also $0.12/kw. With competitive electricity costs, installing solar panels in Jacksonville can provide long-term financial benefits by reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and lowering utility bills.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Jacksonville North Carolina?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Jacksonville, North Carolina, 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:
- Jacksonville receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has a good amount of sun for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Jacksonville are higher than the national average, making it an ideal location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Jacksonville is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Jacksonville pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.12/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 need to purchase as much from the grid.
- With Jacksonville’s relatively lower electricity rates, the savings are still considerable.
After analyzing the data, it looks like it would take around 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Since solar panels last for a long time, you’ll continue to enjoy savings for many years after that initial period. It’s a wise financial decision that also benefits the environment by reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
Investing in solar power in Jacksonville North Carolina
Installing solar panels in Jacksonville, North Carolina can be a smart financial decision. With higher than average sunlight exposure and slightly lower electricity costs compared to the national average, residents can expect to break even on their investment in solar panels within 5-6 years. Beyond that initial period, savings on electricity bills will continue to accumulate, providing long-term financial benefits. By harnessing solar energy, not only can individuals save money, but they can also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. Consider making the switch to solar power in Jacksonville and start enjoying the financial and environmental advantages it offers.