Overview
This article will show Thompson North Dakota residents how they can save money by installing solar panels on their homes. By analyzing local weather data and basic electricity costs, we will demonstrate the financial benefits of utilizing solar energy in this region. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it takes to break even, readers will see the long-term cost savings of going solar in Thompson North Dakota.
Thompson North Dakota Weather Trends
Thompson Precipitation
With only 24.91 inches of precipitation in the last year, Thompson North Dakota is in the 8th percentile nationally and the 7th percentile within the state. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and North Dakota’s average of 30.8 inches, Thompson’s lower precipitation levels make it an ideal location for solar panel installation.
Thompson’s UV Rating
Thompson North Dakota’s average UV rating of 3.41 places it in the 15th percentile nationally and the 48th percentile in North Dakota. When compared to the national average of 4.29 and the state average of 3.46, Thompson’s moderate UV rating provides a solid foundation for harnessing solar energy effectively.
Thompson’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 49%, Thompson North Dakota ranks in the 70th percentile nationally and the 76th percentile within the state. Although the national average is slightly lower at 44.46%, and North Dakota’s average is 46.71%, Thompson still sees a significant number of clear days that are perfect for generating solar power.
Thompson North Dakota Electricity Costs
Thompson residents pay about $0.12/kw for electricity, placing them in the 48th percentile nationally and the 99th percentile within North Dakota. While the national average is slightly higher at $0.13/kw and the state’s average is $0.1/kw, Thompson’s electricity costs make solar panels a cost-effective option for long-term savings.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Thompson North Dakota?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Thompson, North Dakota, 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:
- Thompson, North Dakota receives less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panel efficiency.
- The UV ratings in Thompson are slightly lower than the national average, but still suitable for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Thompson is slightly higher than the national average, with variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Thompson, North Dakota pay slightly less 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.
- With Thompson’s lower electricity rates, the savings are slightly lower compared to the national average.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar installation. This means that after 4-6 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to offset the investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for 25-30 years, you can enjoy these savings for many more years, making it a wise financial and environmental decision.
Investing in solar power in Thompson North Dakota
In conclusion, installing solar panels in Thompson North Dakota can lead to significant long-term cost savings for residents. With lower precipitation levels, moderate UV ratings, and a relatively high number of clear days, Thompson is an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. When considering the slightly lower electricity costs in the region, a standard solar system could pay for itself within 4-6 years, providing years of savings and a sustainable energy source for the future.