Solar By City

Solar and Electricity Data for Wheeler, IL: Does a Solar Installation Make Sense?

Wheeler, IL at a glance

Overall Cloud Coverage Precipitation UV Index Electricity Cost
3.6/10 5.5/10 5.1/10 5.9/10 1.3/10
Not Bad 43% daily 4 inches monthly 4.3 on average 0.1/kw

Overview

Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills in Wheeler Illinois? Installing solar panels on your home could be a cost-effective solution! In this article, we will analyze weather data and electricity costs specific to Wheeler Illinois to demonstrate the financial benefits of going solar. By breaking down the cost of a solar system and estimating the time it will take to break even, you will see how investing in solar panels can lead to long-term savings on your energy expenses.

Wheeler Illinois Weather Trends

Wheeler Precipitation

With 50.48 inches of precipitation in the last year, Wheeler Illinois is in a good spot for harnessing the power of the sun. Compared to the rest of the nation, Wheeler falls just below the average for total precipitation, which sits at 50.61 inches. However, in Illinois, Wheeler is above the state’s average of 45.69 inches annually. This means that there is plenty of water available to keep solar panels clean and efficient in generating electricity.

Wheeler’s UV Rating

Wheeler Illinois boasts an average UV rating of 4.32, putting it in a favorable position for solar energy production. Compared to the national average of 4.29, Wheeler is slightly ahead, showcasing its sunny climate. In Illinois, Wheeler is also above the state average UV rating of 4.21. This means that there is ample sunlight in Wheeler to maximize the output of solar panels, making it a great location for solar energy.

Wheeler’s Cloud Cover

Wheeler Illinois experiences an average of 43% cloud cover, making it a suitable location for solar panel installation. With cloud cover falling below the national average of 44.46% and the state average of 44.03%, Wheeler provides consistent sunlight for solar energy production. Additionally, with a distribution of cloud cover days across different ranges, residents of Wheeler can rely on a good amount of sunny days throughout the year.

Wheeler Illinois Electricity Costs

Residents of Wheeler Illinois pay about $0.1 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, making it one of the most cost-effective options in the state and the nation. Compared to the national average of $0.13/kw, Wheeler’s electricity costs are significantly lower, offering substantial savings in the long run. With Illinois’s average electricity cost at $0.12/kw, Wheeler’s rates are even more competitive, positioning solar energy as a financially favorable alternative for reducing energy expenses.

When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Wheeler Illinois?

Considering the weather and electricity costs in Wheeler 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:

  • Wheeler Illinois receives almost the same amount of rain as the national average, making it suitable for solar panel installations.
  • The UV ratings in Wheeler Illinois are slightly higher than the national average, indicating good conditions for generating solar power.
  • Cloud cover in Wheeler Illinois is slightly lower than the national average, providing ample sunshine for solar panels.

Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:

  • Residents in Wheeler Illinois have a lower electricity cost compared to the national average, which is favorable for solar panel investment.

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 need to be purchased from the grid, resulting in savings on electricity bills.
  • With the lower electricity rates in Wheeler Illinois, the savings are still significant.

After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take around 4-6 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels. This means that after this period, the savings on electricity bills will start to accumulate and offset the investment made. Furthermore, since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, the savings will continue well beyond the break-even point. Investing in solar panels is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally friendly, making it a wise choice for the residents of Wheeler Illinois.

Investing in solar power in Wheeler Illinois

Based on the analysis of weather data and electricity costs in Wheeler Illinois, it is clear that investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings on energy expenses. With favorable conditions for solar energy production and lower electricity costs compared to national and state averages, residents of Wheeler can expect to break even on their solar panel investment in around 4-6 years. After this initial period, the savings on electricity bills will continue to accumulate, making solar panels a financially beneficial and environmentally friendly choice for the residents of Wheeler Illinois.