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

Melvin, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.1/10 6.4/10 8.1/10 4/10 7.1/10
Pretty Good 42% daily 3 inches monthly 3.9 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in Melvin, Iowa can save you money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Melvin, we will break down the financial benefits of switching to solar energy. With the average yearly weather conditions and electricity rates, we will estimate the cost of a solar system and calculate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment.

Melvin Iowa Weather Trends

Melvin Precipitation

With Melvin Iowa receiving 35.45 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is important to note that this puts Melvin in the 19th percentile in the nation and the 42nd percentile in Iowa. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches, it is clear that Melvin experiences lower levels of precipitation. This means that with less rainfall, solar panels are less likely to be affected by weather conditions, making them a reliable source of energy.

Melvin’s UV Rating

Considering Melvin Iowa’s average UV rating of 3.89 in the last year, it is evident that Melvin falls in the 40th percentile in the nation and the 22nd percentile in Iowa. Compared to the national average of 4.29 and Iowa’s average of 4.06, Melvin experiences moderate levels of UV radiation. With an average max UV rating of 4.21, Melvin is in the 38th percentile in the nation and the 32nd percentile in Iowa. These levels of UV radiation make Melvin a suitable location for solar panel installation, as there is enough sunlight to generate significant energy.

Melvin’s Cloud Cover

In the last year, Melvin Iowa had an average of 42% cloud cover, placing it in the 36th percentile in the nation and the 33rd percentile in Iowa. Comparing this to the national average of 44.46% and Iowa’s average of 42.8%, Melvin experiences slightly lower cloud cover. With a good balance of sunny and cloudy days, Melvin offers consistent sunlight for solar panels to efficiently produce energy. This means that even on cloudier days, your solar panels can still generate electricity to power your home.

Melvin Iowa Electricity Costs

Residents of Melvin Iowa pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, ranking Melvin in the 71st percentile in the nation and the 35th percentile in Iowa. With the national average for residential electricity also being $0.13/kw and Iowa’s average matching that, Melvin’s electricity costs are on par with the rest of the country. By installing solar panels, you can reduce your dependence on the grid and lower your electricity bills in the long run, saving you money and helping the environment at the same time.

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

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Melvin, 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:

  • Melvin, Iowa receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Melvin, Iowa are slightly lower than the national average but still sufficient for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Melvin, Iowa is lower than the national average, with a variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Melvin, Iowa pay the national average for electricity, which is $0.13/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 need to purchase from the grid.
  • With the average electricity rates in Melvin, Iowa, the savings are substantial.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5 years, the savings on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and offset the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the initial period. Investing in solar power is a practical way to save money and contribute to environmental conservation.

Investing in solar power in Melvin Iowa

Installing solar panels in Melvin, Iowa can be a wise investment that not only saves you money but also helps the environment. By analyzing the weather data specific to Melvin and understanding the electricity costs in the area, we have determined that residents can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in approximately 5 years. With consistent sunlight, moderate UV radiation levels, and lower precipitation and cloud cover compared to national averages, Melvin is an ideal location for solar energy. Making the switch to solar power can make a positive impact on your wallet and the planet for years to come.