Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Virginia, IL: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Virginia, IL at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
5/10 6.5/10 6.2/10 5.8/10 6.7/10
Pretty Good 41% daily 4 inches monthly 4.3 on average 0.13/kw

Overview

If you live in Virginia, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home could be a wise financial decision. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to your area, we can show you how much money you could save by going solar. With the cost of solar systems decreasing and the potential for significant energy bill savings, you may be able to recoup your investment quicker than you think. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers and see how going solar could benefit your wallet in the long run.

Virginia Illinois Weather Trends

Virginia Precipitation

With Virginia Illinois receiving 45.2 inches of precipitation in the last year, you may wonder how this compares to the rest of the country. Well, Virginia falls in the 38th percentile nationwide and the 62nd percentile in Illinois when it comes to total precipitation. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches and Illinois’s average of 45.69 inches, Virginia’s lower precipitation levels make it an ideal location for solar panel installation.

Virginia’s UV Rating

Looking at the UV rating data for Virginia Illinois, we see an average rating of 4.29 in the last year. This places Virginia in the 58th percentile in the nation and the 67th percentile in Illinois. With the national average UV rating sitting at 4.29 and Illinois’s average at 4.21, Virginia boasts ample sunshine perfect for generating solar power. Additionally, the average max UV rating of 4.67 proves the potential for high solar output in this region.

Virginia’s Cloud Cover

In terms of cloud cover, Virginia Illinois experienced an average of 41% cloudiness in the last year. This puts Virginia in the 35th percentile nationwide and the 24th percentile in Illinois. Compared to the national average of 44.46% and Illinois’s average of 44.03%, Virginia’s lower cloud cover percentages point to increased solar energy production potential. With a significant number of clear days, you can maximize the efficiency of your solar panels.

Virginia Illinois Electricity Costs

When it comes to electricity costs, Virginia Illinois residents pay around $0.13/kw, positioning Virginia in the 67th percentile in the nation and the 54th percentile in Illinois. With the national average matching Virginia’s rate and Illinois’s average slightly lower at $0.12/kw, going solar can help you save money on your electricity bills in the long run. By taking advantage of the abundant sunshine, you can reduce your reliance on traditional power sources and lower your monthly expenses.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Virginia Illinois?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Virginia, 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:

  • Virginia, Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, which is good for solar panel performance.
  • The UV ratings in Virginia, Illinois are on par with the national average, indicating good conditions for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Virginia, Illinois is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Virginia, Illinois pay the national average for electricity, which is more affordable compared to some areas.

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 solar system generates electricity, reducing the amount purchased from the grid.
  • Given the average electricity costs in Virginia, Illinois, the savings will contribute to recouping the initial investment.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Virginia, Illinois. Following this period, the money saved on electricity bills will gradually offset the investment. Since solar panels have a long lifespan, the savings will continue for many years, making it a prudent financial and environmental decision.

Investing in solar power in Virginia Illinois

Installing solar panels in Virginia, Illinois can be a smart financial move. With lower precipitation levels, ample sunshine, and reduced cloud cover, this region is ideal for solar panel performance. Additionally, the electricity costs in Virginia are in line with the national average, making it more affordable compared to other areas. By investing in a solar system, you could break even in about 5 years and continue to save on your electricity bills for many years to come. Going solar in Virginia, Illinois not only benefits your wallet but also contributes to a cleaner environment.