Overview
In Manhattan, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. By analyzing data on weather patterns and electricity costs, we can demonstrate how a solar system can help you save money in the long run. With details on the cost of a solar system and an estimate of when you can expect to break even, this article will show you why going solar is a smart investment for your home in Manhattan.
Manhattan Illinois Weather Trends
Manhattan Precipitation
In the last year, Manhattan, Illinois received 45.08 inches of precipitation, ranking it in the 38th percentile nationally and the 62nd percentile within Illinois. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Illinois averages 45.69 inches annually. With a slightly lower than average amount of precipitation, Manhattan’s climate is conducive to solar panel installation.
Manhattan’s UV Rating
Over the last year, Manhattan, Illinois had an average UV rating of 3.92, positioning it in the 42nd percentile across the country and the 26th percentile within the state. The national average for UV rating is 4.29, with Illinois averaging 4.21. Additionally, the average max UV rating in Manhattan is 4.25, putting it in the 39th percentile nationwide. These UV ratings indicate a good amount of sunlight ideal for solar energy production in Manhattan.
Manhattan’s Cloud Cover
Manhattan, Illinois experienced an average of 47% cloud cover in the last year, placing it in the 61st percentile nationally and the 79th percentile in the state. Comparatively, the national average for cloud cover is 44.46%, with Illinois’s average at 44.03%. With a high number of days with clear or partially cloudy skies, Manhattan offers ample sunlight for efficient solar panel operation throughout the year.
Manhattan Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents of Manhattan, Illinois pay around $0.13/kw for electricity, ranking the city in the 77th percentile nationwide and the 71st percentile within Illinois. The national average for residential electricity is also $0.13/kw, with Illinois averaging $0.12/kw. By harnessing solar power, Manhattan residents can significantly reduce their electricity bills and take advantage of the sunny climate in the region for long-term savings.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Manhattan Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Manhattan, Illinois, 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:
- Manhattan, Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Manhattan, Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still effective for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Manhattan, Illinois is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Manhattan, Illinois pay about the national average for electricity.
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 purchased from the grid.
- With Manhattan, Illinois’ average electricity costs, the savings will accumulate over time.
Based on the calculations, it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. After this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the savings will continue to grow for many years, providing an economical and environmentally friendly solution for energy needs.
Investing in solar power in Manhattan Illinois
Installing solar panels in Manhattan, Illinois is a wise financial decision due to the city’s weather patterns and electricity costs. With slightly lower precipitation levels, favorable UV ratings, and a high amount of sunlight due to low cloud cover, solar panel systems can efficiently generate power. Residents paying around the national average for electricity can expect to break even on a standard 10kW system in approximately 5 years. The long lifespan of solar panels ensures continued savings and a sustainable, eco-friendly energy solution for years to come.