Overview
In Sterling, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial savings. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we estimate how long it will take for you to break even on the cost of a solar system. With favorable weather conditions and high average UV ratings, solar panels in Sterling can generate ample electricity to offset your energy bills. Take a closer look at the numbers to see the potential financial benefits of going solar in Sterling.
Sterling Illinois Weather Trends
Sterling Precipitation
With 38.25 inches of precipitation in the last year, Sterling falls below both the national and Illinois averages. The lower precipitation levels in Sterling mean less risk of weather-related damage to solar panels compared to other areas with higher rainfall.
Sterling’s UV Rating
Sterling’s average UV rating of 3.95 is slightly below the national and Illinois averages. However, with an average max UV rating of 4.26, Sterling is in a good position to benefit from ample sunlight for solar panel energy production. Higher UV ratings mean greater energy output from solar panels, leading to increased cost savings over time.
Sterling’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 45% cloud cover, Sterling is slightly above the national and Illinois averages. Despite this, Sterling still experiences clear days throughout the year, allowing for consistent solar energy generation. The variation in cloud cover days also provides opportunities for maximum energy production during sunny periods.
Sterling Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents in Sterling pay about $0.13/kw for electricity, which is on par with the national average. In comparison to the rest of Illinois, Sterling’s electricity costs are slightly higher. By installing solar panels, Sterling residents can offset these costs with clean, renewable energy, ultimately leading to long-term financial savings and a reduced carbon footprint.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Sterling Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Sterling, Illinois, 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, Illinois receives less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Sterling, Illinois are slightly below the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Sterling, Illinois is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Sterling, Illinois pay the national average for electricity, which is $0.13/kw.
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 you need to purchase from the grid.
- With electricity costs at $0.13/kw, the savings from using solar power can add up over the years.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to offset the investment. And since solar panels can last for 25-30 years, you will continue to save money for many years to come. Investing in solar panels not only helps you financially, but also contributes to a cleaner environment in the long run.
Investing in solar power in Sterling Illinois
Considering the favorable weather conditions, electricity costs, and potential cost savings, installing solar panels in Sterling, Illinois is a wise investment. With the ability to break even on the initial cost of a solar system in approximately 5-6 years, the long-term financial benefits are significant. By harnessing the power of the sun, residents in Sterling can save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. Take advantage of the ample sunlight and favorable weather in Sterling to make the switch to solar energy and start reaping the rewards for years to come.