Save money on power

The sun in your suburb could save you more than $1,000 a year off your power bills — no matter where you live.1 

Free, long-lasting energy

A new solar system could pay itself off in as little as 7 years — and deliver you free electricity for the rest of its 25-year lifespan, making you more resilient to rising power costs.

With install prices as low as $8,500 for a small system and well-established technology, it’s easier than ever to switch on solar and watch your power bills go down.

Steps to switching on solar

Whether you’re just starting to think about solar or have already looked into it, these steps take you all the way to enjoying life without bill shock.

  1. 1.

    Assess if solar is right for you

    Start your solar journey by considering a few key factors.

    Jump to our solar checklist

  2. 2.

    Understand typical prices and savings

    Find out whether solar fits into your budget and how much you could save.

    View solar costs and savings

  3. 3.

    Plan your solar system

    Find out what system design would work best for your home, and how long the tech lasts.

    Start planning your solar system

  4. 4.

    Get your installation underway

    Begin the process of getting quotes and learn what installation involves.

    View guidance on quotes and installation

  5. 5.

    Make the most of solar

    Know how to live well with solar and receive the full benefits. 

    Get the most out of your solar system

Solar checklist

Solar works well for many Kiwi households — but not for everyone. Answer the following questions to help you assess if solar is likely to be a good fit.

What to consider before you install solar

  • Do you mainly run electric appliances?

    The more electrified your home is, the greater the savings from installing solar. If you’re still on gas, consider switching to electric hot water and heating ahead of going solar.

    Plan your home energy upgrades

  • Do you use much power during the day?

    Solar only works when there's daylight, so the more electricity you use during that time, the more you’ll save on bills. A battery can help maximise savings if you use a lot of power outside of daylight hours.

    View tips on shifting your energy use

  • Does your roof have enough space for panels?

    The amount of suitable roof or ground space affects what can be installed. The larger the solar system, the more space for solar panels you’ll need.

    Plan your solar system 

  • Is your roof in good condition?

    If it needs replacing or major maintenance in the next 10 years, get that done first to avoid the cost of removing and reinstalling solar panels.

  • Are you planning any major renovations?

    Any work that could change your roof or electrical wiring should happen before you go solar (and be done with solar in mind).

  • What’s your financial comfort zone?

    Solar can save you money over time, but the value depends on your situation. The shortest payback periods are generally around 7–8 years, but can be 10–12 years in other situations. 

    You need to be comfortable with an upfront cost and waiting a few years for payback ahead of gaining long-term, steady savings.

    Calculate your payback and savings

How solar affects your home's resale value

Having a solar system increases the value of your home, adding an average sale price premium of 1.34%.2

So even if you end up moving, installing solar is a worthwhile investment.

Next step

Solar looks like a good fit?

Learn about typical costs, savings on power bills, plus options for financing solar.

  • Not right for you yet?

    Discover ways to use energy more efficiently and get your home solar-ready.

    Plan home energy upgrades