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Solar and Electricity Data for Melba, ID: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Melba, ID at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.4/10 9.1/10 8.1/10 8.8/10 1/10
Pretty Good 32% daily 3 inches monthly 5.4 on average 0.1/kw

Overview

Harnessing the power of the sun can bring significant financial benefits to Melba Idaho residents looking to save on their electricity bills. By analyzing weather data specific to Melba, including inches of precipitation, average UV ratings, and cloud cover percentages, we can show how installing solar panels can lead to long-term savings. With a breakdown of the cost of a solar system and an estimate of the time it takes to break even, this article will demonstrate the financial advantages of going solar in Melba, Idaho.

Melba Idaho Weather Trends

Melba Precipitation

With Melba receiving 35.36 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls below the national average of 50.61 inches, placing it in the 19th percentile in the nation and the 55th percentile in Idaho. This lower precipitation level makes Melba an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently.

Melba’s UV Rating

With an average UV rating of 5.43, Melba surpasses both the national average of 4.29 and Idaho’s average of 3.63. The high UV rating in Melba, reaching the 88th percentile in the nation and the 96th percentile in Idaho, means that solar panels installed in this area can generate substantial electricity output from the abundant sunlight.

Melba’s Cloud Cover

Recording an average of 32% cloud cover, Melba stands out by being in the 9th percentile in the nation and the 0th percentile in Idaho. With a lower cloud cover compared to the national and Idaho averages, Melba offers more sunny days for solar panels to consistently generate electricity efficiently throughout the year.

Melba Idaho Electricity Costs

Residents of Melba pay about $0.1/kw for electricity, aligning with the Idaho average but falling below the national average of $0.13/kw. By installing solar panels, homeowners in Melba can significantly reduce their electricity costs over time while contributing to a sustainable environment.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Melba Idaho?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Melba Idaho, 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:

  • Melba Idaho receives less rainfall compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Melba Idaho are higher than the national average, indicating good conditions for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Melba Idaho is lower than the national average, with a good number of clear days throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Melba Idaho pay less for electricity compared to the national average, which can impact the savings from solar power.

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 and saving money on electricity bills.
  • With Melba Idaho’s lower electricity rates, the savings may take longer to cover the initial cost of the solar panels.

After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it could take around 10-15 years to recover the initial cost of the solar panels in Melba Idaho. This means that after that period, the savings on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and make the investment worthwhile. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for decades, the long-term benefits of savings and environmental impact make it a wise choice for residents in Melba Idaho.

Investing in solar power in Melba Idaho

Installing solar panels in Melba, Idaho can lead to significant long-term financial savings for residents. With lower precipitation levels, higher UV ratings, and less cloud cover compared to national averages, Melba is an ideal location for harnessing solar energy efficiently. By considering the electricity costs in Melba, homeowners can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 10-15 years. This means that after this initial period, the savings on electricity bills will start to accumulate, making the investment in solar panels a wise choice for residents in Melba, Idaho.