Overview
In Mead, Washington, installing solar panels on your home can provide significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we can estimate how long it will take to break even on the initial investment. With ample sunshine, low precipitation, and minimal cloud cover, Mead is an ideal location for harnessing solar energy to save on electricity bills in the long run.
Mead Washington Weather Trends
Mead Precipitation
With only 29.52 inches of precipitation in the last year, Mead, Washington is in the 11th percentile in the nation and the 35th percentile in Washington. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Washington’s average of 45.64 inches, Mead experiences significantly less rainfall, making it an ideal location for solar energy.
Mead’s UV Rating
Featuring an average UV rating of 3.63 in the last year, Mead, Washington falls in the 25th percentile in the nation and the 65th percentile in Washington. While the national average UV rating is 4.29, and Washington’s average is 3.64, Mead’s sunny climate provides excellent conditions for harnessing solar energy effectively.
Mead’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 46% in the last year, Mead, Washington ranks in the 57th percentile in the nation and the 36th percentile in Washington. Despite Washington’s average cloud cover of 49.1%, Mead enjoys 130 days with minimal cloud cover, further emphasizing its solar energy potential.
Mead Washington Electricity Costs
Residents in Mead, Washington pay only about $0.09 per kw for electricity, placing them in the 2nd percentile in the nation and the 44th percentile in Washington. In comparison, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13 per kw and Washington’s average is $0.1 per kw. By investing in solar panels, Mead residents can save significantly on their electricity bills in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Mead Washington?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Mead Washington, 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:
- Mead Washington gets less precipitation compared to the national average, indicating good conditions for solar panel performance.
- The UV ratings in Mead Washington are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power effectively.
- Cloud cover in Mead Washington is on par with the national average, with varying degrees throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Mead Washington pay slightly less for electricity compared to the national average, making solar energy a cost-effective option.
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:
- By generating electricity, the solar system reduces the need to purchase electricity from the grid, leading to cost savings.
- Given Mead Washington’s lower electricity rates, the savings from using solar power are significant.
After calculating the numbers, it appears that it would take around 6 to 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Mead Washington. This means that after that initial period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for up to 30 years, the long-term savings and benefits are substantial. Investing in solar energy is a wise decision that not only saves money but also contributes to a sustainable future.
Investing in solar power in Mead Washington
Installing solar panels in Mead, Washington is a smart financial decision. With its sunny climate, low precipitation, and relatively low electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on their initial investment in solar panels in about 6 to 7 years. After that period, the savings on electricity bills will begin to accumulate, providing long-term financial benefits. Not only does harnessing solar energy save money, but it also contributes to a more sustainable future for the environment. Consider investing in solar panels in Mead, Washington to enjoy significant cost savings and help protect the planet.