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Solar and Electricity Data for Laurel, MS: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Laurel, MS at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.9/10 5.9/10 3.2/10 8.9/10 6.3/10
Not Bad 42% daily 5 inches monthly 5.5 on average 0.12/kw

Overview

Are you tired of high electricity bills in Laurel, Mississippi? Imagine reducing your monthly expenses by harnessing the power of the sun with solar panels on your home. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we will show you how investing in solar energy can lead to significant savings over time. Learn about the financial benefits of going solar and how long it will take for you to start seeing a return on your investment.

Laurel Mississippi Weather Trends

Laurel Precipitation

With Laurel, Mississippi receiving 58.97 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area has a higher rainfall compared to the national average of 50.61 inches. However, Laurel falls below the Mississippi state average of 60.13 inches. This means that the ample rainfall in Laurel provides an excellent opportunity to harness solar energy, as rainy days can still generate power through cloud cover, making solar panels a reliable source of energy.

Laurel’s UV Rating

Laurel, Mississippi’s average UV rating of 5.5 in the last year showcases a higher solar potential when compared to the national average of 4.29. Although Mississippi’s average is slightly higher at 5.31, Laurel still stands out. Additionally, with an average max UV rating of 5.93, Laurel boasts favorable conditions for solar energy production. This high UV rating indicates that solar panels in Laurel can be highly efficient in converting sunlight into electricity, making them a wise investment for residents.

Laurel’s Cloud Cover

Despite having an average of 42% cloud cover in the last year, Laurel, Mississippi still offers great solar energy potential. The area’s cloud cover puts it below the national average of 44.46% and slightly above the Mississippi state average of 41.29%. With numerous days of varying cloud cover levels, residents can expect consistent solar energy generation throughout the year. The mix of sunny and cloudy days creates a balanced environment for solar panels to produce electricity effectively.

Laurel Mississippi Electricity Costs

Residents in Laurel, Mississippi pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, which is lower than the national average of $0.13/kw. Although the state’s average is $0.11/kw, Laurel still remains competitive in terms of residential electricity costs. By leveraging solar energy, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources, ultimately lowering their monthly utility bills and contributing to a more sustainable future.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Laurel Mississippi?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Laurel Mississippi, 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:

  • Laurel Mississippi receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sun for effective solar panel operation.
  • The UV ratings in Laurel Mississippi are higher than the national average, making it suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Laurel Mississippi is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Laurel Mississippi pay slightly 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 system generates electricity, which means we don’t need to buy as much from the grid.
  • With Laurel Mississippi’s lower electricity rates, the savings are still significant.

After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means, after 4-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Remember, solar panels are durable and can last for many years, so you’ll continue enjoying those savings well into the future. It’s a smart financial and environmentally friendly choice!

Investing in solar power in Laurel Mississippi

By analyzing the weather data and electricity costs in Laurel, Mississippi, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant savings over time. With ample rainfall providing a reliable source of energy, along with high UV ratings and favorable cloud cover, solar energy production in Laurel is promising. Additionally, residents paying lower electricity costs can expect a quicker return on investment, with the initial cost of solar panels being covered in approximately 4-6 years. By going solar, residents can not only reduce their monthly utility bills but also contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s a smart financial and environmentally friendly choice for the residents of Laurel, Mississippi.