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

Solon, IA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5.2/10 5.4/10 8.6/10 4.8/10 7.2/10
Pretty Good 43% daily 3 inches monthly 4.1 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

If you are a resident of Solon, Iowa, considering installing solar panels on your home, this article is for you. We will break down the financial benefits of investing in a solar system by analyzing weather data specific to Solon, including precipitation, UV rating, and cloud cover over the course of a year. By comparing these factors to the basic electricity cost in the area, we will estimate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment. Understanding the potential savings and return on investment can help you make an informed decision about going solar in Solon.

Solon Iowa Weather Trends

Solon Precipitation

With Solon, Iowa receiving 31.88 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls below the national and state averages. This means that the sun shines more often in Solon compared to other areas, making it an ideal location for solar energy. By harnessing the power of the sun through solar panels, residents can take advantage of the abundant sunlight to generate clean energy for their homes.

Solon’s UV Rating

Solon, Iowa boasts an average UV rating of 4.06, positioning it close to the national average. This rating indicates good exposure to sunlight, which is crucial for the efficient operation of solar panels. Residents can benefit from the high UV levels in Solon by investing in solar energy systems to reduce their reliance on traditional grid electricity and lower their carbon footprint.

Solon’s Cloud Cover

With an average cloud cover of 43% in Solon, residents can enjoy mostly sunny days, ideal for maximizing solar energy production. Additionally, having a significant number of clear sky days throughout the year allows for consistent energy generation from solar panels. By capitalizing on these clear days, homeowners in Solon can increase their savings on utility bills and contribute to a greener environment.

Solon Iowa Electricity Costs

Residents of Solon, Iowa pay $0.13 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, aligning with both the national and state averages. By investing in solar panels, residents can offset their electricity costs and protect themselves from the unpredictability of utility rates. With solar energy, homeowners in Solon can save money in the long run while embracing a sustainable energy source for their households.

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

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Solon, 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:

  • Solon, Iowa receives less precipitation compared to the national average, providing good conditions for solar panel efficiency.
  • The UV ratings in Solon, Iowa are slightly below the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Solon, Iowa is close to the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Solon, Iowa pay the national average for electricity, making it a cost-effective choice for 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.
  • With average electricity rates, the savings from solar power will still contribute significantly towards the investment.

After analyzing the data, it seems that it would take approximately 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Solon, Iowa. This means that after this period, the savings from reduced electricity bills will begin to repay the investment. Considering the long lifespan of solar panels, the accumulated savings over time will make it a wise financial and environmental decision for residents in Solon, Iowa.

Investing in solar power in Solon Iowa

With the favorable weather conditions in Solon, Iowa, along with the average electricity costs, investing in solar panels proves to be a financially sound and environmentally friendly decision for residents. By harnessing the power of the sun and taking advantage of the abundant sunlight, homeowners can expect to break even on their investment in approximately 6-7 years. In the long run, the savings on utility bills and the reduction in carbon footprint make going solar in Solon a smart choice for residents looking to save money and contribute to a greener future.