Overview
Thinking about investing in solar panels for your Kent, Washington home? In this article, we will break down the financial benefits of installing a solar system by utilizing weather data, electricity costs, and estimated break-even timelines. With Kent experiencing ample sunshine throughout the year, you can save money on electricity bills and help the environment at the same time.
Kent Washington Weather Trends
Kent Precipitation
With Kent experiencing an average of 51.04 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls right around the middle compared to the rest of the nation and slightly above average compared to the rest of Washington. This means that despite some rain, Kent still receives enough sunshine to make solar panels a worthwhile investment.
Kent’s UV Rating
At an average UV rating of 3.61, Kent ranks in the lower percentiles compared to the nation but slightly above average when compared to the rest of Washington. Although not the sunniest location, Kent still manages to receive enough sunlight to make solar panels a viable option for homeowners looking to save money on electricity bills.
Kent’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 54%, Kent ranks in the 85th percentile in the nation and the 59th percentile in Washington. Despite some cloud cover, Kent still has a significant number of clear days suitable for solar energy production. This means that solar panels can still generate a substantial amount of electricity throughout the year.
Kent Washington Electricity Costs
Residents of Kent pay about $0.11/kw for electricity, putting them below the national average and slightly above the state average. With relatively affordable electricity rates, investing in solar panels can help homeowners save money in the long run while reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Kent Washington?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Kent, Washington, 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:
- Kent, Washington receives slightly more rainfall than the national average, but still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Kent are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Kent is higher than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Kent pay less 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 solar system generates electricity, reducing the amount purchased from the grid.
- With lower electricity rates in Kent, the savings are not as significant as in other areas.
After calculating the numbers, it appears that it might take around 7-8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7-8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Remember, solar panels have a long lifespan, so after the initial period, you’ll enjoy these savings for many years to come. Investing in solar energy is a wise financial decision that also benefits the environment!
Investing in solar power in Kent Washington
Investing in solar panels for your Kent, Washington home can be a smart financial decision with the potential to save you money on electricity bills in the long run. Despite Kent’s slightly higher precipitation levels and lower UV ratings compared to national averages, the city still receives enough sunlight to make solar panels a worthwhile investment. With affordable electricity costs and the potential to break even on the initial investment in 7-8 years, solar energy is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. By harnessing the power of the sun, you can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future while enjoying long-term savings. Consider installing solar panels and start reaping the benefits today!