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Solar and Electricity Data for Kalispell, MT: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Kalispell, MT at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
2.8/10 3.3/10 9.3/10 0.7/10 0.5/10
OK 48% daily 2 inches monthly 3.2 on average 0.1/kw

Overview

Discover the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your Kalispell Montana home. By analyzing weather data over the course of a year, along with basic electricity costs, we will show you how a solar system can save you money in the long run. Learn about the initial cost of installation, estimated time to break even, and how you can start making the switch to clean, renewable energy today.

Kalispell Montana Weather Trends

Kalispell Precipitation

With only 23.06 inches of precipitation in the last year, Kalispell Montana is in the 7th percentile in the nation and the 29th percentile in Montana. This means that compared to the rest of the country and the state, Kalispell experiences relatively low levels of rainfall, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation. Embracing solar energy in a city with such low precipitation levels can help you save money in the long run.

Kalispell’s UV Rating

Having an average UV rating of 3.2 and an average max UV rating of 3.49 in the last year, Kalispell Montana is in the lower percentiles compared to the national and state averages. This may indicate that Kalispell receives less intense sunlight than other areas. However, even with slightly lower UV levels, installing solar panels in Kalispell can still provide significant benefits for your home’s energy efficiency and overall savings.

Kalispell’s Cloud Cover

With an average of 48% cloud cover in the last year, Kalispell Montana falls in the 67th percentile in the nation and the 89th percentile in Montana. While cloud cover can impact solar panel efficiency, Kalispell’s cloud cover percentage is relatively moderate, offering plenty of sunny days for solar energy production. By taking advantage of the clear days, you can maximize the benefits of installing solar panels on your Kalispell home.

Kalispell Montana Electricity Costs

Residents of Kalispell pay approximately $0.1/kw for electricity, placing the city in the 5th percentile nationwide and the 25th percentile in Montana. With lower electricity costs compared to the national and state averages, investing in solar panels can help you save even more money on your energy bills in Kalispell. By making the switch to solar energy, you can take control of your energy expenses and contribute to a cleaner environment for future generations.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Kalispell Montana?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Kalispell Montana, 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:

  • Kalispell Montana receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Kalispell Montana are a bit lower than the national average but still sufficient for efficient solar power generation.
  • Cloud cover in Kalispell Montana is slightly higher than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Kalispell Montana pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which is beneficial for using 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 need to purchase from the grid.
  • With lower electricity costs in Kalispell Montana, the savings from solar power are significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many more years. Investing in solar power is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly in the long run.

Investing in solar power in Kalispell Montana

Installing solar panels on your Kalispell Montana home can provide significant financial benefits over time. With the city’s low precipitation levels, moderate cloud cover, and slightly lower UV ratings, solar energy can still be efficiently generated. Additionally, with electricity costs in Kalispell being lower than the national average, investing in solar panels can help you save money on your energy bills. Based on the analysis, it is estimated that it would take around 5 years to break even on the initial cost of a solar installation. This means that the long-term savings and environmental benefits make switching to clean, renewable energy a smart choice for homeowners in Kalispell.