Overview
Are you a Shelby Alabama resident looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a cost-effective solution. By analyzing weather data specific to Shelby Alabama, we have determined that the area receives ample sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar energy production. With the average cost of electricity in Shelby Alabama and the breakdown of solar system costs, we estimate that it will take you approximately X years to break even on your investment. Keep reading to learn how you can start saving money by going solar.
Shelby Alabama Weather Trends
Shelby Precipitation
With Shelby Alabama receiving 69.73 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area experiences more rain than the national average of 50.61 inches. Although the state’s average is slightly higher at 66.86 inches, Shelby stands out for its higher rainfall compared to the rest of Alabama. Despite the abundant rainfall, solar panels can still be a viable option for residents looking to save on electricity bills.
Shelby’s UV Rating
Shelby Alabama’s average UV rating of 4 places it below the national average of 4.29 and well below the state average of 5.16. Additionally, the average max UV rating of 4.43 in Shelby is also lower than both the national and state averages. However, solar panels can still generate significant energy even with lower UV ratings, making them a feasible investment for Shelby residents looking to benefit financially while reducing their environmental impact.
Shelby’s Cloud Cover
Shelby Alabama’s average cloud cover of 58% is higher than the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 43.57%. Despite the higher cloud cover, Shelby still experiences a considerable number of days with lower cloud cover percentages, providing ample sunlight for solar energy production. By taking advantage of the sunnier days, residents can generate savings on their electricity bills by installing solar panels.
Shelby Alabama Electricity Costs
Residents in Shelby Alabama pay around $0.13/kw for electricity, which is in line with the national average. However, compared to the rest of Alabama, Shelby’s electricity costs are higher, placing it in the 93rd percentile in the state. By installing solar panels, residents can offset these high electricity costs and start saving money in the long run. Despite higher costs, the investment in solar panels can lead to significant financial benefits over time.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Shelby Alabama?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Shelby, Alabama, 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:
- Shelby, Alabama receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Shelby are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still sufficient for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Shelby is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Shelby, Alabama pay about the national average for electricity.
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 reduces the amount of electricity you need to buy from the grid.
- With the average electricity costs in Shelby, the savings will be substantial.
After calculating the numbers, it seems that it would take approximately 7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment. Keep in mind that solar panels have a long lifespan, so you will continue to enjoy these savings for many years beyond that initial period. It’s a wise investment for both your finances and the environment!
Investing in solar power in Shelby Alabama
After analyzing the weather trends in Shelby Alabama and considering the electricity costs in the area, it is evident that installing solar panels can be a smart investment for residents. Despite higher rainfall and lower UV ratings compared to national averages, Shelby still experiences enough sunlight to make solar energy production effective. With electricity costs in the 93rd percentile in the state, residents can offset these expenses by investing in solar panels. Based on our calculations, it would take approximately 7 years to break even on the initial investment, after which significant savings on electricity bills can be realized. Ultimately, going solar not only helps save money in the long run but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future for Shelby Alabama.