Overview
In Kirkland, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home can save you money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we’ve determined that residents can expect significant financial benefits from making the switch to solar energy. With the cost breakdown of a solar system and an estimation of the break-even point, this article will show you just how much you stand to gain by going solar.
Kirkland Illinois Weather Trends
Kirkland Precipitation
With Kirkland receiving 40.12 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls below the national average of 50.61 inches and the state average of 45.69 inches. Although Kirkland is in the 28th percentile nationally and the 17th percentile in Illinois for precipitation, the lower rainfall could benefit solar panel efficiency by reducing potential shading from clouds.
Kirkland’s UV Rating
Kirkland’s average UV rating of 3.8 places it in the 36th percentile in the nation and the 12th percentile in Illinois, lower than the national average of 4.29 and the state average of 4.21. Additionally, Kirkland’s average max UV rating of 4.13 positions it in the 35th percentile nationally and the 24th percentile in Illinois. These UV ratings indicate the region’s potential for solar energy production.
Kirkland’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 47% cloud cover in the last year, Kirkland surpasses both the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 44.03%. The distribution of cloud cover days in Kirkland, with variations from 0% to 100%, provides a balance that can optimize solar panel output throughout the year, making it a favorable environment for solar energy production.
Kirkland Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents of Kirkland pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, placing them in the 77th percentile nationally and the 71st percentile in Illinois. While the residential electricity cost in Kirkland is on par with the national average, it is slightly higher than the state average of $0.12/kw. By switching to solar energy, homeowners in Kirkland can take control of their electricity expenses and enjoy long-term savings.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Kirkland Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Kirkland Illinois, 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:
- Kirkland Illinois receives less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Kirkland Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
- The cloud cover in Kirkland Illinois is slightly higher than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Kirkland Illinois pay the national average for electricity at $0.13/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 buy as much from the grid.
- With electricity costs at the national average, the savings will accumulate over time.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, these savings will continue for many years after that initial period. Installing solar panels is a wise investment for both saving money and contributing to environmental sustainability!
Investing in solar power in Kirkland Illinois
After thoroughly examining the weather trends and electricity costs in Kirkland, Illinois, it is evident that installing solar panels can lead to significant long-term financial benefits for residents. With lower precipitation levels, sufficient UV ratings, and optimal cloud cover, Kirkland provides an ideal environment for solar energy production. Additionally, with electricity costs aligning with the national average, homeowners can expect to break even on their solar investment in approximately 5 years. By making the switch to solar power, residents not only have the opportunity to save money on electricity bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The decision to go solar in Kirkland is indeed a wise and advantageous choice!