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Solar and Electricity Data for Wasilla, AK: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Wasilla, AK at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.9/10 1.6/10 8/10 0/10 9.9/10
Not Bad 53% daily 3 inches monthly 1.8 on average 0.21/kw

Overview

Are you a Wasilla Alaska resident looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be the solution you’ve been looking for. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to your area, we’ll show you how investing in a solar system can lead to significant long-term savings. With a breakdown of costs and estimated time to break even, you’ll see how solar energy can benefit not only your wallet but also the environment.

Wasilla Alaska Weather Trends

Wasilla Precipitation

With Wasilla Alaska receiving 35.73 inches of precipitation in a year, it falls below the national average of 50.61 inches, positioning it in the 20th percentile in the country. Compared to the state average of 57.06 inches, Wasilla ranks in the 52nd percentile in Alaska. This means that the relatively lower precipitation levels in Wasilla make it an ideal location for solar panel installation.

Wasilla’s UV Rating

Having an average UV rating of 1.83 places Wasilla at the 0th percentile nationwide and the 51st percentile in Alaska. While this may seem low, it indicates that there is still ample sunlight for solar energy production. With an average max UV rating of 1.99, Wasilla ranks in the 2nd percentile in the nation and the 48th percentile in Alaska. This means that there is potential for significant solar energy generation in the area.

Wasilla’s Cloud Cover

At an average of 53% cloud cover, Wasilla is in the 84th percentile in the nation and the 2nd percentile in Alaska. While Alaska’s average cloud cover is 67.94%, which is relatively high, Wasilla’s lower cloud cover percentage provides more opportunities for solar power production. With varying levels of cloud cover throughout the year, there are still plenty of clear days to harness solar energy.

Wasilla Alaska Electricity Costs

Residents in Wasilla pay approximately $0.21/kw for electricity, making it one of the most expensive areas in the nation, ranking in the 99th percentile. However, compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, Wasilla’s electricity costs are significantly higher. By investing in solar panels, Wasilla residents can reduce their reliance on expensive grid electricity and save money in the long run while also reducing their carbon footprint.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Wasilla Alaska?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Wasilla Alaska, 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:

  • Wasilla Alaska gets less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
  • The UV ratings in Wasilla Alaska are lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Wasilla Alaska is slightly higher than the national average, with some days having more cloud cover than others.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Wasilla Alaska 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.
  • Given the higher electricity rates in Wasilla Alaska, the savings from solar power are even more significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 to 6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Wasilla Alaska. This means that after this period, the savings on electricity bills will start accumulating, making the investment worthwhile. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for up to 30 years, the long-term savings and environmental benefits are substantial. It’s a wise financial decision that also contributes to a greener future!

Investing in solar power in Wasilla Alaska

After analyzing the weather data and electricity costs specific to Wasilla, Alaska, it is evident that investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings. With lower precipitation levels, sufficient UV ratings for solar energy production, and relatively lower cloud cover percentage, Wasilla provides an ideal environment for solar panel installation. Despite higher electricity costs compared to the national average, the potential savings from solar power make the investment worthwhile. Based on the analysis, it would take approximately 5 to 6 years to break even on the initial cost of the solar system, with long-term benefits lasting up to 30 years. In conclusion, installing solar panels in Wasilla, Alaska is a wise financial decision that not only saves money but also contributes to a more sustainable future.