Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Smith Center, KS: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Smith Center, KS at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
6.1/10 8.8/10 8.3/10 6.8/10 6.4/10
Pretty Good 34% daily 3 inches monthly 4.6 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

In Smith Center, Kansas, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how a solar system can save you money in the long run. With a breakdown of costs and estimates on when you can expect to break even, this article will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about going solar in Smith Center.

Smith Center Kansas Weather Trends

Smith Center Precipitation

With Smith Center Kansas receiving 33.9 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area experiences less rainfall compared to both the national and state averages. This lower precipitation can make solar panels a great investment as they require sunlight rather than rain to generate electricity. By harnessing the power of the sun, Smith Center residents can take advantage of this resource to save money and reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources.

Smith Center’s UV Rating

Smith Center Kansas boasts an average UV rating of 4.62, placing it above the national average and close to the state average. This means that the area receives ample sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation. With a higher UV rating compared to many other regions, residents of Smith Center can capitalize on this abundant sunshine to generate clean and renewable energy for their homes.

Smith Center’s Cloud Cover

Smith Center Kansas experiences an average of 34% cloud cover, which is below both the national and state averages. This lower cloud cover indicates that Smith Center enjoys clearer skies, providing more opportunities for sunlight to reach solar panels and generate electricity. With a higher number of days with minimal cloud cover, residents can expect consistent solar energy production, leading to potential savings on their electricity bills.

Smith Center Kansas Electricity Costs

At $0.13/kw, Smith Center Kansas residents pay an electricity rate that aligns with the national average. However, compared to other areas within the state, Smith Center’s electricity costs are relatively lower. By installing solar panels, homeowners in Smith Center can protect themselves from potential future rate hikes and take control of their energy expenses. With the sunny climate and favorable electricity costs, going solar in Smith Center can provide both financial savings and environmental benefits for years to come.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Smith Center Kansas?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Smith Center Kansas, 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:

  • Smith Center Kansas receives less precipitation compared to the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Smith Center Kansas are higher than the national average, indicating good conditions for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Smith Center Kansas is lower than the national average, with a decent amount of sunny days throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Smith Center Kansas pay the national average price for electricity, making it a feasible option for investing in solar energy.

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 leading to savings on electricity bills.
  • With electricity costs at the national average, the savings will contribute to covering the initial cost of the solar panels.

After analyzing the data, it is estimated that it would take approximately 5-6 years to cover the initial investment of the solar panels in Smith Center Kansas. This means that after this period, the savings on electricity bills will start to make up for the cost of the system. Considering that solar panels last for many years, this investment will continue to provide savings and benefits for a long time. It’s a wise decision that not only saves money but also contributes to sustainability and energy efficiency.

Investing in solar power in Smith Center Kansas

Considering the weather trends and electricity costs in Smith Center, Kansas, it is clear that installing solar panels can be a wise financial decision for residents. With lower precipitation, higher UV ratings, and less cloud cover compared to national averages, Smith Center provides an ideal environment for solar energy production. Additionally, having electricity costs that align with the national average makes solar panel installation a feasible investment for homeowners in the area. Based on the data analyzed, it is estimated that residents can expect to break even on their initial solar panel investment within 5-6 years. This means that beyond this point, savings on electricity bills will start to outweigh the initial cost of the system. By going solar, residents of Smith Center can not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.