Overview
In Scranton, South Carolina, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial savings in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we have determined that a solar system can help you break even within a reasonable timeframe. With ample sunlight, low cloud cover, and high UV ratings throughout the year, the conditions are ideal for harnessing solar energy and reducing your reliance on traditional electricity sources. This article will break down the costs associated with installing a solar system and provide you with a clear estimate of how quickly you can start seeing a return on your investment.
Scranton South Carolina Weather Trends
Scranton Precipitation
With Scranton, South Carolina receiving 71.83 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area has above-average rainfall compared to both the rest of the country and the state of South Carolina. Despite this, installing solar panels can still be incredibly beneficial as the ample sunlight can offset any potential issues caused by high precipitation levels.
Scranton’s UV Rating
Scranton South Carolina’s average UV rating of 5.15 in the last year places it well above the national average of 4.29. While it falls slightly below the state average of 5.08, the high UV ratings make it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. With plenty of sunlight available, investing in solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills and environmental impact.
Scranton’s Cloud Cover
Despite an average cloud cover of 41% in Scranton, South Carolina, the area still experiences a significant number of clear days conducive to solar energy production. With 122 days of minimal cloud cover and a total of 267 days with less than 75% cloud cover in the last year, residents have ample opportunities to generate clean energy and reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources.
Scranton South Carolina Electricity Costs
Scranton residents pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, slightly below the national average. Compared to the rest of South Carolina, this puts Scranton in a favorable position in terms of electricity costs. By installing solar panels, you can take advantage of the area’s favorable rates and abundant sunlight to start seeing long-term financial savings on your energy bills.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Scranton South Carolina?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Scranton, South Carolina, 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:
- Scranton receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Scranton are higher than the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Scranton is slightly lower than the national average, with fluctuations throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Scranton pay the same amount for electricity as 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 and resulting in cost savings.
- Given the average electricity rates in Scranton, the savings may take a bit longer to cover the initial cost.
Based on the data and calculations, it is estimated that it would take around 8-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Scranton, South Carolina. After this period, the savings on electricity bills can start to accumulate and provide a return on the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for 25-30 years, the long-term benefits and savings make it a wise financial decision while also being environmentally friendly.
Investing in solar power in Scranton South Carolina
Installing solar panels in Scranton, South Carolina can be a smart financial decision with the potential for significant long-term savings. By taking advantage of the area’s ample sunlight, high UV ratings, and favorable electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on their investment in around 8-10 years. With solar panels lasting up to 30 years, the ongoing savings on electricity bills make this a wise choice both economically and environmentally. Investing in solar energy in Scranton can not only benefit your wallet but also reduce your carbon footprint in the long run.