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Solar and Electricity Data for West Decatur, PA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

West Decatur, PA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
2.9/10 1.1/10 3.2/10 1.2/10 9/10
OK 55% daily 5 inches monthly 3.3 on average 0.14/kw

Overview

This article will show you how installing solar panels on your home in West Decatur Pennsylvania can save you money on your electricity bills. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs specific to the area, we will demonstrate the financial benefits of switching to solar energy. We will break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even, making the case for why going solar is a smart investment for your wallet.

West Decatur Pennsylvania Weather Trends

West Decatur Precipitation

With West Decatur Pennsylvania receiving 59.12 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is clear that the area is no stranger to rainy weather. However, when compared to the national average of 50.61 inches, West Decatur’s above-average rainfall can actually be a benefit for solar panel owners. The increased precipitation can help keep the panels clean and operating efficiently, maximizing their energy production potential.

West Decatur’s UV Rating

West Decatur Pennsylvania’s average UV rating of 3.33 in the last year may seem low compared to the national average of 4.29, but this does not mean that solar panels are not a viable option in the area. In fact, the consistent sunlight in West Decatur, even with slightly lower UV ratings, still makes it a great location for solar energy generation. Installing solar panels can help you take advantage of the sunlight that is available, reducing your reliance on traditional energy sources.

West Decatur’s Cloud Cover

Despite an average of 55% cloud cover in the last year, West Decatur Pennsylvania is still a suitable location for installing solar panels. Although the area may have more clouds than the national average of 44.46%, the number of clear days throughout the year provides ample opportunity for solar energy production. By harnessing the power of the sun on sunny days, you can still benefit from switching to solar energy in West Decatur.

West Decatur Pennsylvania Electricity Costs

West Decatur Pennsylvania residents pay about $0.14/kw for electricity, which is higher than the national average of $0.13/kw. Despite this higher cost, going solar can actually save you money in the long run. By generating your own electricity from solar panels, you can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your overall electricity expenses. Making the switch to solar energy in West Decatur can be a smart financial investment for your home.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in West Decatur Pennsylvania?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in West Decatur 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:

  • West Decatur Pennsylvania receives slightly more rainfall than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
  • The UV ratings in West Decatur Pennsylvania are slightly lower than the national average, but they’re still suitable for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in West Decatur Pennsylvania is higher than the national average, with some variation throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in West Decatur Pennsylvania 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, reducing the amount needed from the grid.
  • Since West Decatur Pennsylvania has slightly higher electricity rates, the savings from solar power will be greater.

After analyzing the data, it looks like it would take around 6-7 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 6-7 years, the money saved on electricity bills will start to pay off the investment. Also, keep in mind that solar panels have a long lifespan, so you’ll continue to benefit from these savings for many years after that initial period. It’s a wise choice for saving money and contributing to a cleaner environment!

Investing in solar power in West Decatur Pennsylvania

Considering the weather trends and electricity costs in West Decatur, Pennsylvania, it is evident that installing solar panels can be a cost-effective and beneficial investment for homeowners. With above-average precipitation, slightly lower UV ratings, and higher cloud cover than the national average, West Decatur still provides enough sunlight for solar panels to operate efficiently. Additionally, despite paying slightly more for electricity compared to the national average, residents can expect to break even on their initial investment in solar panels within 6-7 years. This means that switching to solar energy is not only a smart financial choice but also a sustainable way to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. By harnessing the power of the sun, homeowners in West Decatur can save money on their electricity bills while contributing to a cleaner environment for years to come.