Overview
Are you a resident of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a wise financial decision. In this article, we will explore the benefits of solar energy based on weather data specific to Vandergrift, including inches of precipitation, average max UV rating, average UV rating, and average percentage cloud cover. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, we will show you how going solar can help you save money in the long run.
Vandergrift Pennsylvania Weather Trends
Vandergrift Precipitation
With Vandergrift receiving 59.81 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the area has a higher than average amount of rainfall. Compared to the rest of the country, Vandergrift is in the 70th percentile, showing that there is a significant opportunity to harness this natural resource for solar energy production. Although Vandergrift falls in the 57th percentile within Pennsylvania, the overall higher precipitation levels make it a prime location for solar panel installation.
Vandergrift’s UV Rating
When looking at the UV ratings in Vandergrift, it is clear that the area receives a decent amount of sunlight. With an average UV rating of 3.68, Vandergrift is in the 29th percentile nationwide and 49th percentile within Pennsylvania. While the ratings may not be as high as some other areas, the sun exposure in Vandergrift is still sufficient for effective solar panel operation. By taking advantage of the available sunlight, residents can tap into a reliable source of renewable energy.
Vandergrift’s Cloud Cover
Vandergrift experiences an average cloud cover of around 54%, indicating that the skies can be overcast at certain times. Despite this, Vandergrift ranks in the 86th percentile nationally for cloud cover, showcasing the area’s potential for solar energy generation even on cloudy days. With a significant number of days falling within different cloud cover ranges, residents can rely on solar power as a consistent source of electricity throughout the year.
Vandergrift Pennsylvania Electricity Costs
Residents of Vandergrift pay approximately $0.11/kw for electricity, placing them in the 21st percentile in the nation and the 1st percentile within Pennsylvania. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, Vandergrift’s electricity costs are lower, making the investment in solar panels even more appealing. By harnessing the power of solar energy, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources and lower their overall utility bills in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Vandergrift Pennsylvania?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Vandergrift Pennsylvania, 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:
- Vandergrift Pennsylvania receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunshine for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Vandergrift Pennsylvania are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still good for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Vandergrift Pennsylvania is slightly higher than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
- There were 82 days with little to no cloud cover, 79 days with moderate cloud cover, 92 days with significant cloud cover, and 111 days with heavy cloud cover in the last year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Vandergrift Pennsylvania 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 need to buy from the grid.
- With relatively lower electricity rates in Vandergrift Pennsylvania, the savings can be significant.
After analyzing the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to surpass the investment. Additionally, considering the longevity of solar panels, the savings will continue for many years to come. Investing in solar power not only helps save money but also contributes to a cleaner environment.
Investing in solar power in Vandergrift Pennsylvania
Considering the weather trends and electricity costs in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings. With higher levels of precipitation, decent sunlight exposure, and reliable energy production even on cloudy days, Vandergrift is an ideal location for solar panel installation. The lower electricity costs in the area make the investment in solar energy even more attractive, with an estimated break-even period of 4-6 years. By making the switch to solar power, residents can not only save money but also contribute to a cleaner environment for years to come.