Overview
Are you tired of high electricity bills in Sterling, Alaska? Solar panels could be the solution you’ve been looking for. By analyzing the weather data from the past year, we can show you how much sunlight your home receives, making solar energy a viable option. With the breakdown of costs for a solar system and the estimated time it will take to break even, you can see the financial benefits of switching to solar power for your home. Save money in the long run and reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources by making the switch to solar today.
Sterling Alaska Weather Trends
Sterling Precipitation
With Sterling Alaska receiving 31.68 inches of precipitation in the last year, it’s clear that the area doesn’t see excessive rainfall. Comparing this data to the national and state averages, Sterling falls below the average totals. This means that Sterling residents can take advantage of their lower precipitation levels to harness more sunlight for their solar panels, ultimately benefiting financially and environmentally.
Sterling’s UV Rating
Although Sterling Alaska has an average UV rating of 2.1, which is lower than the national average of 4.29, this doesn’t mean solar energy isn’t a viable option. The area’s UV rating falls in the 76th percentile in Alaska, indicating a decent amount of sunlight potential. By utilizing solar panels, Sterling residents can still capture and convert sunlight into energy, leading to long-term cost savings and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
Sterling’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 68% cloud cover in the last year, Sterling Alaska experiences higher cloud cover compared to the national average. Despite this, residents can take advantage of the 40 days with minimal cloud cover to generate solar energy. By strategically placing solar panels and maximizing sunny days, Sterling homeowners can offset their electricity costs and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Sterling Alaska Electricity Costs
At about $0.25/kw for electricity, Sterling Alaska residents pay more than the national average of $0.13/kw. However, when compared to the state average of $0.34/kw, Sterling’s electricity costs are more favorable. By installing solar panels, residents can reduce their reliance on expensive traditional energy sources, ultimately saving money in the long run while transitioning to a more sustainable energy solution.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Sterling Alaska?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Sterling Alaska, 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:
- Sterling Alaska receives less rainfall than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Sterling Alaska are lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Sterling Alaska is higher than the national average, which may affect the efficiency of solar panels.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Sterling Alaska 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 need to purchase from the grid.
- Due to higher electricity rates in Sterling Alaska, the savings from solar power are significant.
After calculating the numbers, it is estimated that it would take approximately 7-8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Sterling Alaska. This means that after 7-8 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years beyond the break-even point. Making the switch to solar energy is not only a financially sound decision but also a sustainable choice for the environment.
Investing in solar power in Sterling Alaska
Switching to solar power in Sterling, Alaska can be a beneficial investment for homeowners looking to save money on electricity bills and reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources. By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in the area, we have determined that residents could break even on a standard solar system within 7-8 years. The financial benefits of solar energy, combined with its long-term sustainability, make it an attractive option for those seeking to make a positive impact on their wallet and the environment. Consider making the switch to solar today and start enjoying the benefits for years to come.