Overview
In Wilmette, Illinois, installing solar panels on your home can greatly reduce your electricity costs and provide significant long-term financial benefits. By analyzing weather data and electricity costs, we will show you how a solar system can help you save money over time. With a detailed breakdown of the cost of installation and an estimate of when you can expect to break even, you can make an informed decision about whether solar panels are a good investment for your home in Wilmette.
Wilmette Illinois Weather Trends
Wilmette Precipitation
With Wilmette receiving 47.13 inches of precipitation in the last year, it falls slightly below the national average of 50.61 inches but slightly above the Illinois average of 45.69 inches. Although the percentile ranking in the nation is 42nd, Wilmette ranks higher in Illinois at the 71st percentile.
Wilmette’s UV Rating
Wilmette’s average UV rating of 3.62 in the last year places it in the 25th percentile nationally and the 3rd percentile in Illinois. Comparing this to the national average of 4.29 and Illinois’s average of 4.21 suggests Wilmette has slightly lower sun exposure. Additionally, the average max UV rating of 3.76 further solidifies this ranking.
Wilmette’s Cloud Cover
Wilmette experienced an average of 48% cloud cover in the last year, ranking in the 65th percentile nationally and the 89th percentile in Illinois. This indicates that there are ample sunny days to make the most of solar power. With varying levels of cloud cover throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities for solar panel efficiency.
Wilmette Illinois Electricity Costs
Wilmette residents pay approximately $0.13/kw for electricity, placing them in the 77th percentile nationally and the 71st percentile in Illinois. Although the cost is on par with the national average, it is slightly higher than the Illinois average of $0.12/kw. By investing in solar panels, residents can potentially offset these electricity costs in the long run.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Wilmette Illinois?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Wilmette 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:
- Wilmette Illinois receives slightly less precipitation than the national average, making it a suitable location for solar panels.
- The UV ratings in Wilmette Illinois are slightly lower than the national average, but still sufficient for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Wilmette Illinois is around the national average, with some variations throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Wilmette Illinois pay the national average price for electricity.
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 and saving costs.
- With electricity prices at the national average, the savings will be consistent over time.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 5 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Wilmette Illinois. This means that after 5 years, the money saved on electricity bills will surpass the initial investment. Additionally, since solar panels last for 25 to 30 years, the long-term savings will continue for many years to come. Investing in solar panels not only saves money but also contributes to a sustainable environment.
Investing in solar power in Wilmette Illinois
Installing solar panels on your home in Wilmette, Illinois can be a wise financial decision that can lead to long-term savings. By considering the weather trends and electricity costs in Wilmette, we have shown that the investment in solar panels can pay off in approximately 5 years. Not only will you save money on electricity costs, but you will also contribute to a sustainable environment by using renewable energy. Taking all factors into account, investing in solar panels in Wilmette can provide significant financial benefits and make a positive impact for years to come.