Overview
Imagine offsetting the increasing cost of electricity and reducing your carbon footprint by harnessing the power of the sun right in your own backyard. In Lincoln, Iowa, where the weather data shows consistently high UV ratings and low cloud cover, installing solar panels on your home could save you thousands of dollars over time. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, you’ll see just how financially beneficial making the switch to solar can be for you and your family.
Lincoln Iowa Weather Trends
Lincoln Precipitation
With Lincoln, Iowa receiving 34.35 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s clear that the area enjoys a moderate amount of rainfall. Compared to the rest of the nation, Lincoln falls within the 17th percentile, while in Iowa, it ranks in the 28th percentile. This means that residents can count on a reliable water supply for their gardens and other outdoor needs, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy.
Lincoln’s UV Rating
Considering that Lincoln, Iowa has an average UV rating of 4 in the last year, it’s evident that the area experiences a decent amount of sunlight. This places Lincoln in the 45th percentile nationally and 45th percentile statewide. With higher UV ratings than the national and state averages, residents have a great opportunity to capitalize on solar energy to reduce their carbon footprint and save on electricity costs.
Lincoln’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 43% cloud cover in Lincoln, Iowa over the last year, residents can expect plenty of sunshine to power their solar panels effectively. Lincoln ranks in the 44th percentile nationally and the 55th percentile statewide for cloud cover. The number of days with various cloud cover percentages indicates a favorable environment for harnessing solar energy efficiently.
Lincoln Iowa Electricity Costs
Lincoln, Iowa residents pay about $0.17/kw for electricity, which is higher than the national average of $0.13/kw. However, it is consistent with the state average, making it a competitive rate within Iowa. By installing solar panels, residents can take control of their energy costs and potentially save thousands of dollars over time while reducing their reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Lincoln Iowa?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Lincoln 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:
- Lincoln Iowa receives less precipitation than the national average, making it suitable for solar panels.
- The UV ratings are slightly below the national average, but still enough for effective solar power generation.
- Cloud cover is slightly below average for the country, with variations throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Lincoln Iowa pay 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 from the grid.
- Due to Lincoln Iowa’s higher electricity rates, the savings are significant.
After analysis, it appears that it would take approximately 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Given that solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years thereafter. It’s a wise investment for saving money and contributing to environmental preservation at the same time!
Investing in solar power in Lincoln Iowa
Installing solar panels in Lincoln, Iowa can be a wise investment for residents looking to offset the increasing cost of electricity and reduce their carbon footprint. With favorable weather conditions and electricity costs, the initial investment in solar panels can be recouped in approximately 7 years. Not only does switching to solar power offer financial benefits, but it also allows families to contribute to environmental preservation for years to come. Making the switch to solar energy in Lincoln is a smart choice for long-term savings and sustainability.