Overview
Are you looking to save money on your electricity bill and lessen your environmental impact? Consider installing solar panels on your home in Watson, Illinois! By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we can show you how investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings. With the help of our breakdown of costs and estimated payback period, you can see how going solar is a financially beneficial decision for your household.
Watson Illinois Weather Trends
Watson Precipitation
With Watson, Illinois receiving 50.69 inches of precipitation in the last year, the area falls within the 49th percentile nationwide and the 80th percentile in Illinois. Comparatively, the national average for total precipitation is 50.61 inches, while Illinois averages 45.69 inches annually. This means that Watson enjoys a fairly consistent amount of precipitation, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy.
Watson’s UV Rating
Over the past year, Watson, Illinois has had an average UV rating of 4.31, placing it in the 58th percentile in the nation and the 69th percentile in Illinois. The national average stands at 4.29, while Illinois averages 4.21. Additionally, the average max UV rating in Watson is 4.65, placing it in the 49th percentile nationwide and the 62nd percentile in Illinois. These high UV ratings make Watson a prime location for solar panel installation, ensuring optimal energy production throughout the year.
Watson’s Cloud Cover
With an average cloud cover of 42% in the last year, Watson, Illinois ranks within the 41st percentile nationwide and the 34th percentile in Illinois. In comparison, the national average stands at 44.46%, while Illinois averages 44.03%. Additionally, Watson experienced a diverse range of cloud cover days, including 124 days with clear skies and 68 days with overcast conditions. This variability in cloud cover provides ample opportunities for solar panels to generate electricity efficiently.
Watson Illinois Electricity Costs
Residents of Watson, Illinois pay approximately $0.1/kw for electricity, placing them in the 13th percentile nationwide and the 6th percentile in Illinois. In contrast, the national average for residential electricity is $0.13/kw, with Illinois averaging $0.12/kw. By investing in solar panels, Watson residents can significantly reduce their electricity costs over time, making it a financially wise decision for their household.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Watson Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Watson 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:
- Watson Illinois receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, which can help keep solar panels clean and operating efficiently.
- The UV ratings in Watson Illinois are slightly above the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Watson Illinois is slightly lower than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Watson Illinois pay lower rates for electricity compared to the national average, which can impact the cost savings from using solar power.
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, especially in a location like Watson Illinois with good sun exposure.
- With lower electricity rates in Watson Illinois, the savings may take longer to cover the initial cost of the solar panels compared to areas with higher rates.
After analyzing the data, it could take around 7-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Watson Illinois. This means that after this period, the money saved on electricity bills will start to surpass the initial investment. Additionally, with solar panels lasting for 25-30 years, there will be many years of savings and environmental benefits to enjoy. It’s a wise investment for the future!
Investing in solar power in Watson Illinois
Installing solar panels in Watson, Illinois is a smart decision for both your wallet and the environment. By taking advantage of the area’s weather trends and low electricity costs, residents can expect to break even on their investment in around 7-10 years. With solar panels lasting 25-30 years, this means years of savings ahead. It’s a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for households in Watson!