Overview
In Sullivan, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home can lead to significant financial savings over time. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we have calculated that a solar system can pay for itself within a reasonable timeframe. With average sunlight levels and manageable cloud cover, residents can take advantage of solar energy to reduce their electricity bills and increase the value of their homes. This article will provide a breakdown of the costs associated with installing solar panels in Sullivan and outline the potential long-term savings for residents.
Sullivan Illinois Weather Trends
Sullivan Precipitation
With 42.27 inches of precipitation in the last year, Sullivan Illinois ranks in the 32nd percentile nationally and the 34th percentile in Illinois. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Illinois’s average of 45.69 inches, Sullivan experiences moderate rainfall, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy.
Sullivan’s UV Rating
Having an average UV rating of 4.21 places Sullivan in the 54th percentile in the nation and the 59th percentile in Illinois. This showcases the ample sunlight available in Sullivan, with the national average UV rating at 4.29. With an average max UV rating of 4.55, Sullivan is in a prime position to capitalize on solar energy benefits.
Sullivan’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 43% cloud cover, Sullivan Illinois falls in the 44th percentile in the nation and the 38th percentile in Illinois. These cloud cover percentages are lower than the national average of 44.46% and Illinois’s average of 44.03%, providing residents with more consistent access to sunlight for solar energy production.
Sullivan Illinois Electricity Costs
At $0.14/kw for electricity, Sullivan Illinois ranks in the 85th percentile nationally and in the 85th percentile in Illinois. Comparing this to the national average of $0.13/kw and Illinois’s average of $0.12/kw, it is evident that Sullivan residents have higher electricity costs, making solar panels a cost-effective solution to save money in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Sullivan Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Sullivan 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:
- Sullivan Illinois gets slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a good location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Sullivan Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Sullivan Illinois is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Sullivan Illinois pay slightly 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 amount needed from the grid.
- Given the higher electricity rates in Sullivan Illinois, the savings from solar power are even more significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Keep in mind that solar panels have a long lifespan, so beyond that initial period, the savings will accumulate for many years to come. Investing in solar power is a practical way to save money and contribute to a greener environment!
Investing in solar power in Sullivan Illinois
Installing solar panels in Sullivan, Illinois is a smart investment that can lead to significant financial savings over time. With moderate rainfall, ample sunlight, and lower cloud cover percentages, Sullivan provides an ideal environment for harnessing solar energy. Coupled with higher electricity costs in the area, residents can expect to break even on a standard solar system within approximately 6 years. Beyond that, savings will continue to accumulate over the system’s 25-30 year lifespan. By opting for solar power, residents not only reduce their electricity bills but also increase the value of their homes while contributing to a greener environment.