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Solar and Electricity Data for Lead, SD: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Lead, SD at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
4.8/10 8.6/10 5.5/10 1.4/10 8.5/10
Not Bad 36% daily 4 inches monthly 3.4 on average 0.14/kw

Overview

This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in Lead, South Dakota can help you save money on your electricity bill. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs in Lead, we will demonstrate how solar energy can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for your energy needs. We will break down the initial cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment, providing you with a clear picture of the financial benefits of going solar in Lead.

Lead South Dakota Weather Trends

Lead Precipitation

With an average of 48.32 inches of precipitation in the last year, Lead, South Dakota is in the 45th percentile in the nation and the 97th percentile in the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Lead falls slightly below. However, compared to South Dakota’s average of 34.67 inches, Lead receives significantly more precipitation. By harnessing solar energy, you can take advantage of the sunshine in Lead to power your home, reducing your dependence on traditional energy sources.

Lead’s UV Rating

In the last year, Lead South Dakota had an average UV rating of 3.39, ranking it in the 14th percentile in the nation and the 1st percentile in the state. While Lead’s UV rating is slightly lower than the national average of 4.29, it is still sufficient for solar energy production. With an average max UV rating of 3.54, Lead has even more potential for solar energy generation. By installing solar panels on your home, you can take advantage of the sunlight in Lead to save money on your electricity bill.

Lead’s Cloud Cover

Lead South Dakota had an average of 36% cloud cover in the last year, placing it in the 14th percentile in the nation and the 17th percentile in the state. With fewer clouds than the national average of 44.46%, Lead is an ideal location for solar energy production. Additionally, Lead experienced a significant number of days with clear skies, providing ample opportunity for solar panels to generate electricity. By going solar in Lead, you can decrease your carbon footprint and reduce your reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Lead South Dakota Electricity Costs

Lead South Dakota residents pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, ranking Lead in the 85th percentile in the nation and the 93rd percentile in the state. While this cost is slightly higher than the national average of $0.13/kw, it is still lower than the South Dakota average of $0.11/kw. By investing in solar panels for your home, you can lock in your electricity costs and potentially save money in the long run. With abundant sunlight and favorable electricity costs, going solar in Lead is a smart financial choice.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Lead South Dakota?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Lead, South Dakota, 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:

  • Lead, South Dakota received slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Lead are a bit lower than the national average, but still favorable for generating solar power.
  • Lead experiences lower cloud cover compared to the national average, with a mix of cloud cover throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Lead, South Dakota pay slightly more 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, reducing the amount needed to be purchased from the grid.
  • Given the higher electricity rates in Lead, South Dakota, the savings from solar power are significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. And with solar panels lasting for a couple of decades, the long-term savings potential is substantial. Investing in solar energy is a smart financial decision that also contributes to a cleaner environment!

Investing in solar power in Lead South Dakota

Installing solar panels in Lead, South Dakota can be a smart financial decision that also benefits the environment. By taking advantage of the sunlight in Lead to power your home, you can save money on your electricity bill. With lower precipitation, favorable UV ratings, and minimal cloud cover, Lead is an ideal location for solar energy production. Even though residents pay slightly more for electricity compared to the national average, the potential savings from solar power make it a cost-effective investment. After analyzing the data, it is clear that investing in solar panels in Lead can lead to a break-even point in about 4-6 years, with long-term savings accumulating over the system’s lifespan. Going solar in Lead is a win-win solution for your wallet and the planet!