Overview
If you are a resident of Tunbridge, Vermont, you may be missing out on significant financial benefits by not installing solar panels on your home. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we have determined that a solar system can save you money in the long run. With a breakdown of costs and estimates on how quickly you can recoup your investment, this article will show you why going solar is a smart financial decision for Tunbridge residents.
Tunbridge Vermont Weather Trends
Tunbridge Precipitation
With Tunbridge receiving 62.47 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area experiences a significant amount of rainfall. This puts Tunbridge in the 75th percentile in the nation and the 21st percentile in Vermont. In comparison, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Vermont’s average is 68.03 inches. These higher levels of precipitation provide ample opportunity for solar panels to generate electricity, even on cloudy days.
Tunbridge’s UV Rating
Having an average UV rating of 3.17 in the last year, Tunbridge is in the 6th percentile in the nation and the 77th percentile in Vermont. While this may not seem ideal for solar energy generation, it is worth noting that the national average UV rating is 4.29 and Vermont’s average UV rating is 3.06. Additionally, with an average max UV rating of 3.38, Tunbridge residents can still benefit from solar panels, especially during peak sunlight hours.
Tunbridge’s Cloud Cover
Despite the average 58% cloud cover in Tunbridge over the last year, which places the area in the 94th percentile in the nation and the 22nd percentile in Vermont, solar panels can still be a viable option for residents. When looking at the breakdown of cloud cover throughout the year, Tunbridge had 61 days with clear skies and 124 days with heavy cloud cover. By taking advantage of the sunny days, solar panels can offset electricity costs even during cloudier periods.
Tunbridge Vermont Electricity Costs
By paying approximately $0.22/kw for electricity, Tunbridge residents are in the 99th percentile in the nation and the 89th percentile in Vermont in terms of electricity costs. In comparison, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, while Vermont’s average is $0.2/kw. With lower-than-average sunshine hours and higher electricity costs, installing solar panels can not only help reduce electricity bills but also contribute to a greener environment in Tunbridge.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Tunbridge Vermont?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Tunbridge Vermont, 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:
- Tunbridge Vermont receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, but still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Tunbridge Vermont are lower than the national average, which may affect solar panel performance slightly.
- Cloud cover in Tunbridge Vermont is higher than the national average, with a mix of different cloud cover percentages throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Tunbridge Vermont 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 amount needed from the grid and saving money on electricity bills.
- With higher electricity rates in Tunbridge Vermont, the savings from using solar power are significant.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6-7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will surpass the initial investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years after the initial investment has been recovered. Investing in solar power is a wise decision in terms of saving money and contributing to environmental sustainability.
Investing in solar power in Tunbridge Vermont
Installing solar panels in Tunbridge, Vermont can be a smart financial decision for residents. Despite higher precipitation levels and lower UV ratings, solar panels can still effectively generate electricity. With electricity costs in Tunbridge higher than the national average, the savings from using solar power can significantly offset initial installation costs. Based on our analysis, residents in Tunbridge can expect to break even on their solar investment within 6-7 years, making it a wise long-term investment. By going solar, residents can save money on electricity bills and contribute to a greener environment in Tunbridge.