Overview
This article will show you why installing solar panels on your home in Sumner, Iowa can save you money in the long run. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to Sumner, we will break down the costs of a solar system and estimate how quickly you can break even on your investment. With the financial benefits outlined in this article, you’ll see how solar energy can be a smart and profitable decision for your home.
Sumner Iowa Weather Trends
Sumner Precipitation
With Sumner receiving 33.39 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area experiences less rainfall compared to both the national average of 50.61 inches and Iowa’s average of 36.9 inches. By harnessing solar energy, you can take advantage of the sunny days and reduce your dependence on traditional energy sources.
Sumner’s UV Rating
Sumner’s average UV rating of 3.85 indicates that the area gets a moderate amount of sunlight, ranking it below the national average of 4.29 and slightly lower than Iowa’s average of 4.06. However, with an average max UV rating of 4.13, Sumner has the potential for higher solar energy generation. Installing solar panels can help you capitalize on this natural resource.
Sumner’s Cloud Cover
Sumner’s average cloud cover of 44% suggests that the area experiences a fair amount of sunlight throughout the year. While this is slightly above the national average of 44.46%, it is still higher than Iowa’s average of 42.8%. With a good number of days having minimal cloud cover, solar panels can effectively generate energy for your home even on cloudy days.
Sumner Iowa Electricity Costs
Sumner residents pay about $0.15/kw for electricity, which is higher than both the national average of $0.13/kw and Iowa’s average of $0.13/kw. By switching to solar energy, you can significantly reduce your electricity bills and take control of your energy costs. Investing in solar panels now can lead to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Sumner Iowa?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Sumner 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:
- Sumner Iowa receives less precipitation compared to the national average, which is beneficial for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Sumner Iowa are slightly below the national average, but still conducive for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Sumner Iowa is close to the national average, with varying percentages throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Sumner Iowa 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 Sumner Iowa, the savings from solar power are significant.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 7 years to recover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 7 years, the savings on electricity bills will begin to outweigh the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, these savings will continue for many years to come, making it a wise financial and environmental decision.
Investing in solar power in Sumner Iowa
By analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs specific to Sumner, Iowa, it is evident that installing solar panels can lead to substantial long-term savings. With less precipitation, moderate sunlight, and relatively higher electricity costs in Sumner, solar energy presents a smart and profitable alternative to traditional energy sources. Based on our calculations, investing in a solar system could result in breaking even in approximately 7 years, after which the savings on electricity bills will continue for many years. Overall, opting for solar panels in Sumner, Iowa can prove to be a financially sound and environmentally friendly decision for homeowners.