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Solar and Electricity Data for Westwood, MA: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Westwood, MA at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.3/10 2.2/10 1.6/10 2.8/10 9.8/10
Not Bad 51% daily 6 inches monthly 3.7 on average 0.2/kw

Overview

Are you a resident of Westwood, Massachusetts looking to save money on your electricity bills? Installing solar panels on your home could be a smart financial decision. By analyzing weather data specific to Westwood, we can show you how much money you could save on your monthly electricity costs. With the right solar system, you could potentially break even on your investment in as little as X years. Keep reading to learn more about the financial benefits of going solar in Westwood.

Westwood Massachusetts Weather Trends

Westwood Precipitation

With Westwood receiving 66.95 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is evident that the town experiences a fair amount of rain throughout the year. While this may seem like a drawback, it actually works in favor of installing solar panels. Westwood’s precipitation levels are lower than the Massachusetts average, meaning less risk of weather damage to solar panels. Additionally, being in the 84th percentile nationally for precipitation means Westwood is in a prime location for harnessing the power of the sun for efficient energy production.

Westwood’s UV Rating

Westwood’s average UV rating of 3.68 in the last year may seem moderate, but it indicates a great potential for harnessing solar energy. Compared to the rest of the country, Westwood falls below the national average UV rating. However, its UV rating is higher than the Massachusetts average, making it a favorable location for solar panel installation. With a higher UV rating, Westwood residents can generate more electricity from their solar panels, ultimately leading to greater savings and a more sustainable energy source.

Westwood’s Cloud Cover

Westwood’s average of 51% cloud cover suggests that there are ample sunny days suitable for solar energy generation. Despite having more cloud cover than the national average, Westwood falls slightly below the Massachusetts average, making it an ideal location for solar panels. With nearly 90 days of clear skies and low cloud cover, residents in Westwood have significant opportunities to maximize the efficiency of their solar panels and save on their electricity bills.

Westwood Massachusetts Electricity Costs

With Westwood residents paying about $0.2 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, it is clear that electricity costs can add up over time. Compared to both national and state averages, Westwood falls on the higher end of the spectrum. By switching to solar energy, residents can significantly reduce their monthly electricity bills and break even on their investment in a shorter period of time. With the rising cost of traditional electricity sources, investing in solar panels in Westwood is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally responsible.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Westwood Massachusetts?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Westwood, Massachusetts, 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:

  • Westwood gets more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to work effectively.
  • The UV ratings in Westwood are slightly lower than the national average, but they’re still good for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Westwood is higher than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Westwood pay more for electricity compared to the national average, at $0.20/kw.

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 purchased from the grid.
  • Given Westwood’s higher electricity rates, the savings from using solar power are significant.

After calculations, it appears that it would take around 8 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after 8 years, the savings on electricity bills will start to accumulate and pay off the investment. With solar panels lasting 25 to 30 years, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make this a wise investment choice.

Investing in solar power in Westwood Massachusetts

Considering the weather patterns and electricity costs in Westwood, Massachusetts, it is evident that installing solar panels can lead to significant financial benefits. With the right solar system, residents can break even on their investment in approximately 8 years. This means that for the remaining life of the solar panels, which can last up to 25 to 30 years, homeowners will continue to save money on their electricity bills. By harnessing the power of the sun in Westwood, not only can residents save money, but they can also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. Investing in solar panels in Westwood is a smart financial decision with long-term benefits.