Overview
In Lehigh, Iowa, installing solar panels on your home can greatly reduce your electricity costs and save you money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how a solar system can pay for itself over time. With the average amount of precipitation, maximum UV rating, average UV rating, and cloud cover taken into consideration, we will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate the time it will take for you to start saving money.
Lehigh Iowa Weather Trends
Lehigh Precipitation
With Lehigh, Iowa receiving 36.05 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is important to note that this puts the town in the 20th percentile in the nation and the 50th percentile in Iowa. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Lehigh experiences slightly less rainfall. Additionally, Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches is quite similar to Lehigh’s amount. By taking advantage of the precipitation levels in Lehigh, you can harness the power of solar energy to reduce your electricity costs.
Lehigh’s UV Rating
In the last year, Lehigh Iowa had an average UV rating of 4.04, placing it in the 47th percentile in the nation and the 54th percentile in Iowa. When comparing this to the national average of 4.29 and Iowa’s average of 4.06, it is clear that Lehigh experiences a decent amount of sunlight. With an average max UV rating of 4.37, there is ample opportunity to convert sunlight into energy through solar panels. By utilizing the sun’s rays, you can make a positive impact on both your wallet and the environment.
Lehigh’s Cloud Cover
Lehigh Iowa had an average of 42% cloud cover in the last year, placing it in the 37th percentile in the nation and the 36th percentile in Iowa. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Iowa’s average of 42.8%, Lehigh experiences relatively clear skies. With a significant number of days with low cloud cover, there are plenty of opportunities to generate solar energy throughout the year. By taking advantage of these conditions, you can begin to see significant savings on your electricity bill.
Lehigh Iowa Electricity Costs
Lehigh residents pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, positioning the town in the 49th percentile in the nation and the 16th percentile in Iowa. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw and Iowa’s average of $0.13/kw, Lehigh benefits from slightly lower electricity costs. By installing solar panels on your home, you can further reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources and save even more in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Lehigh Iowa?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Lehigh, Iowa, 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:
- Lehigh receives less precipitation than the national average, which is great for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Lehigh are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Lehigh is around the national average, with some variability throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Lehigh pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, which is beneficial for solar panel savings.
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 reliance on the grid and lowering electricity bills.
- With Lehigh’s lower electricity rates, the savings will accumulate over time.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6-7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, you can enjoy those savings for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar energy is not only a smart financial decision but also a step towards a more sustainable future.
Investing in solar power in Lehigh Iowa
Installing solar panels in Lehigh, Iowa can be a smart financial decision that not only decreases your electricity costs but also helps the environment. By taking advantage of the town’s relatively low precipitation, decent UV rating, and clear skies, solar panels can efficiently generate energy, saving you money in the long run. With electricity costs in Lehigh being slightly below the national average, the investment in solar panels can pay for itself in approximately 6-7 years. Beyond that, you can continue to enjoy significant savings and contribute to a more sustainable future. Consider harnessing the power of solar energy for your home in Lehigh, Iowa.