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Solar and Electricity Data for Montpelier, VT: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Montpelier, VT at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
2.3/10 0.2/10 1/10 0.3/10 9.8/10
OK 63% daily 6 inches monthly 3 on average 0.2/kw

Overview

Are you a Montpelier Vermont resident looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a great investment for you! In this article, we will break down the financial benefits of installing a solar system in Montpelier, using weather data collected over the course of a year to show you how much you could save on your electricity costs. We will also estimate how long it will take for you to break even on the cost of the system, making it clear just how much money you could potentially save in the long run. Let’s dive in and see how going solar can benefit you financially!

Montpelier Vermont Weather Trends

Montpelier Precipitation

With Montpelier receiving 71.19 inches of precipitation in the last year, placing it in the 90th percentile in the nation and the 68th percentile in Vermont, it’s clear that the city experiences a significant amount of rainfall. Comparing this to the national average of 50.61 inches and Vermont’s average of 68.03 inches showcases Montpelier’s higher-than-average precipitation levels.

Montpelier’s UV Rating

In terms of UV rating, Montpelier had an average rating of 2.97, which puts it in the 3rd percentile in the nation and the 36th percentile in Vermont. This lower UV rating makes it an ideal location for solar panel installation, especially when compared to the national average of 4.29 and Vermont’s average of 3.06. With an average max UV rating of 3.16, Montpelier continues to be a suitable location for solar energy production.

Montpelier’s Cloud Cover

Montpelier experienced an average cloud cover of 63% over the last year, placing it in the 98th percentile in the nation and the 67th percentile in Vermont. This high level of cloud cover may impact solar energy production at times. However, with a significant number of days across varying cloud cover percentages, there are still plenty of opportunities for solar panels to generate electricity efficiently.

Montpelier Vermont Electricity Costs

Montpelier residents pay around $0.2/kw for electricity, positioning the city in the 98th percentile in the nation and the 56th percentile in Vermont. While this may seem high compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, it falls in line with Vermont’s average of $0.2/kw. By investing in solar panels, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources and save money in the long run.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Montpelier Vermont?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Montpelier Vermont, 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:

  • Montpelier Vermont receives more rain than the national average, but still has suitable sunlight for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Montpelier Vermont are slightly lower than the national average, but are sufficient for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Montpelier Vermont is higher than the national average, with varying percentages throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Montpelier Vermont pay more for electricity compared to the national average.

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.
  • With the higher electricity rates in Montpelier Vermont, the savings are significant.

After crunching the numbers, it looks like it would take around 8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 8 years, the savings on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Keep in mind that solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond this initial period, you’ll benefit from those savings for many more years. Investing in solar panels is a wise choice for both financial savings and environmental conservation.

Investing in solar power in Montpelier Vermont

Considering the weather data and electricity costs in Montpelier Vermont, it is clear that investing in solar panels can result in significant financial savings over time. With Montpelier’s higher-than-average rainfall, suitable sunlight for solar energy production, and higher electricity costs compared to the national average, residents can expect to break even on their investment in around 8 years. Beyond this initial period, the savings on electricity bills will continue to accumulate, making solar panel installation a wise choice for both financial benefits and environmental conservation. Take advantage of Montpelier’s weather trends and electricity costs by going solar today!