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Solar and Electricity Data for Watchung, NJ: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Watchung, NJ at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.7/10 3.8/10 1/10 4.4/10 9.3/10
Not Bad 47% daily 6 inches monthly 4 on average 0.15/kw

Overview

If you’re a Watchung New Jersey resident looking to save money on your electricity bills, installing solar panels on your home could be the solution you’ve been searching for. By analyzing the local weather data and electricity costs, we will show you how a solar system can help you break even on your investment in a reasonable amount of time. Let’s explore the financial benefits of going solar in Watchung.

Watchung New Jersey Weather Trends

Watchung Precipitation

With Watchung New Jersey receiving 71.29 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area has above-average rainfall. Compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, Watchung ranks in the top 90th percentile nationwide. While New Jersey’s average falls slightly higher at 65.31 inches, Watchung’s unique climate offers an excellent opportunity for harnessing solar power.

Watchung’s UV Rating

Watchung New Jersey’s average UV rating of 3.98 in the last year positions it in the 44th percentile nationally. When compared to both the national average of 4.29 and New Jersey’s average of 4.04, Watchung’s UV exposure is moderate. However, with an average max UV rating of 4.26, Watchung presents an ideal environment for solar energy production. Higher UV ratings translate to increased solar efficiency, offering promising returns for homeowners.

Watchung’s Cloud Cover

With an average of 47% cloud cover, Watchung New Jersey enjoys mostly clear skies suitable for solar panel installation. Ranking in the top 62nd percentile nationwide, Watchung’s cloud cover is lower than the national average of 44.46%. The distribution of cloud cover days also provides a balanced mix, allowing for optimal solar energy generation throughout the year. This consistency makes going solar in Watchung a reliable investment for long-term energy savings.

Watchung New Jersey Electricity Costs

Residents in Watchung pay approximately $0.15/kw for electricity, placing them in the 93rd percentile nationally. While New Jersey’s average residential electricity cost is $0.16/kw, Watchung falls slightly below this at the 27th percentile within the state. By transitioning to solar power, residents can significantly reduce their electricity bills and take advantage of the abundant sunlight the area offers, making it a financially savvy choice.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Watchung New Jersey?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Watchung New Jersey, 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:

  • Watchung New Jersey receives more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sun for solar panels to be efficient.
  • The UV ratings in Watchung New Jersey are slightly lower than the national average, but they are still good for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Watchung New Jersey is around the national average, with some days having more cloud cover than others throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Watchung New Jersey pay slightly 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, meaning we won’t need to purchase as much from the grid.
  • Considering Watchung New Jersey’s higher electricity rates, the savings will be even greater.

After running the numbers, it appears that it would take approximately 5.5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 5.5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will begin to accumulate and pay off the investment. Additionally, since solar panels last for many years, you will continue to benefit from these savings for a long time. Investing in solar power is a wise way to save money and contribute to environmental sustainability!

Investing in solar power in Watchung New Jersey

After analyzing the weather trends and electricity costs in Watchung, New Jersey, it is evident that installing solar panels can offer significant financial benefits to residents. With abundant sunlight, moderate UV ratings, and lower-than-average cloud cover, Watchung provides an ideal environment for solar energy production. Additionally, the slightly higher electricity costs in the area make transitioning to solar power a smart investment, with an estimated break-even point of around 5.5 years. By harnessing the power of the sun, residents can not only save money on their electricity bills but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Going solar in Watchung is a valuable choice for long-term energy savings and environmental impact.