Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Macksburg, IA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Macksburg, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
6/10 7.1/10 7.8/10 5.4/10 9.5/10
Pretty Good 40% daily 3 inches monthly 4.2 on average 0.17/kw

Overview

If you’re a Macksburg Iowa resident looking to save money on your electricity bills, installing solar panels on your home could be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Macksburg, we can show you how much you could save by going solar. With information on the average annual precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover, along with the cost of a solar system, we estimate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment. Read on to find out how going solar can benefit your wallet in the long run.

Macksburg Iowa Weather Trends

Macksburg Precipitation

With Macksburg receiving 36.97 inches of precipitation last year, it falls below the national average of 50.61 inches but slightly above Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches. While Macksburg is in the 22nd percentile nationally, it ranks in the 63rd percentile within the state. By harnessing the power of the sun through solar panels, you can take advantage of the sunny days to generate energy and reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources.

Macksburg’s UV Rating

With an average UV rating of 4.2 in Macksburg, you can benefit from this moderate level of sunlight exposure to produce solar energy efficiently. Compared to the national average of 4.29, Macksburg is at the 54th percentile nationally and the 83rd percentile within Iowa. By installing solar panels, you can make the most of the sun’s rays and reduce your environmental footprint while lowering your electricity bills.

Macksburg’s Cloud Cover

With an average of 40% cloud cover in Macksburg, you have ample opportunities to harness solar power throughout the year. Compared to the national average of 44.46%, Macksburg’s cloud cover percentage is below average, placing it in the 29th percentile nationally and the 14th percentile in Iowa. By capitalizing on the clear days for solar energy production, you can save money in the long run and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Macksburg Iowa Electricity Costs

With Macksburg residents paying about $0.17/kw for electricity, the cost is relatively high compared to the national average of $0.13/kw. In fact, Macksburg is in the 95th percentile nationally and the 100th percentile within Iowa in terms of electricity costs. By investing in solar panels, you can hedge against rising electricity prices and take control of your energy expenses for years to come, ultimately saving money in the process.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Macksburg Iowa?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Macksburg 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:

  • Macksburg Iowa receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Macksburg Iowa are slightly lower than the national average, but still good for generating solar power effectively.
  • Cloud cover in Macksburg Iowa is lower than the national average, with only 40% average cloud cover throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Macksburg Iowa pay more for electricity compared to the national average, at about $0.17/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 amount needed from the grid, especially with higher electricity costs in Macksburg Iowa.

After calculation, it appears that it would take approximately 8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. Since solar panels last for a long time, the savings will continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar power is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally friendly, providing sustainable energy for years to come.

Investing in solar power in Macksburg Iowa

Installing solar panels in Macksburg, Iowa can be a smart financial decision for residents looking to save money on their electricity bills. With lower precipitation, moderate UV ratings, and less cloud cover than national averages, Macksburg is a suitable location for generating solar energy efficiently. Additionally, with residents paying higher electricity costs compared to the national average, investing in solar panels can help hedge against rising prices and control energy expenses. By breaking even on the initial cost of solar panels in about 8 years, residents can enjoy long-term savings and contribute to a cleaner environment for years to come.