When the sun shines, PV (photovoltaic) cells in the solar panels convert sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity.
This energy is converted into AC (alternating current) power, by an inverter (included in your purchase), for use in your home.
Your home appliances (fridge, lights, TV, etc.) use this solar power before drawing any additional power needed from the electricity grid.
Excess energy created can be stored in a battery to be used when the sun goes down or exported back to the electricity grid.
That’s it.
The cost of a solar system varies depending on the size of the system, the type of solar panels, the inverter, and the battery. In New Zealand, the average cost of a solar system for a home is around $14,000 without a battery and $30,000 with a battery.
Grid-connected Solar Systems must comply with New Zealand electrical regulations, including the AS/NZS 3000, the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules. Solar panels must meet AS/NZS 5033 standards and must have IEC 61730 certification. The inverter of the Solar system must meet AS 4777.1 standards.
These regulations require two pairs of eyes to verify your system has been safely installed. The Electrician installing the system then produces a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) and an independent inspector who produces a Record of Inspection (RoI).
The installation time for a solar system depends on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation. In general, it takes about 2 days to install a solar system for a home.
A Green Home Loan is a special financing option offered by banks to help Kiwis make energy-efficient and eco-friendly upgrades to their homes. These loans often provide low or zero-interest top-ups on existing mortgages, making it more affordable to invest in solar power, battery storage, and other sustainable improvements. It’s an easy way to reduce energy costs while supporting a greener future.
Currently, there are no government subsidies for solar installations in New Zealand. However, many banks offer Green Home Loans, which provide zero to low-interest financing for energy-efficient home upgrades, including solar. These loans make it easier and more affordable for Kiwis to switch to solar with no upfront costs, helping more households enjoy the benefits of clean, cost-saving energy.
Yes, a solar power system can increase the value of your home. Homes with solar are often more attractive to buyers as they offer lower energy costs, energy independence, and a sustainable power source. Studies show that properties with solar tend to sell faster and at a premium compared to those without. Research from Homes.co.nz shows that homes with solar sell for an average of 4.4% more. Investing in solar is not only a smart way to reduce power bills but also a valuable long-term asset for your home.
A smart meter is essential for accurately measuring the energy your solar system generates and how much you send back to the grid. It enables real-time monitoring of your power usage, helping you maximise savings and efficiency.
With a smart meter, your electricity retailer can track both the energy you consume and the solar power you export, ensuring you receive the correct credits on your bill. It’s a key part of optimising your solar investment and making the most of your renewable energy.
No, a battery is not required to install a solar system, but it can enhance the benefits. Without a battery, your system will power your home during the day, and any excess energy will be sent back to the grid. Adding a battery allows you to store surplus energy for use at night or during power outages, increasing energy independence and maximising savings. Whether a battery is the right choice depends on your energy needs—our team can help you decide the best setup for your home.
High-quality commercial solar panels last for 25 to 30 years, with most good manufacturers offering a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance guarantee. The top-tier Trina Vertex panels retain around 89.4% efficiency after 25 years. Combined with regular maintenance, high quality solar panels will serve your business for years to come.
The installation time for commercial solar panels varies depending on the system size and safety requirements. Small systems (under 50kW) typically take 1-2 weeks to install, while larger systems (100kW+) may take several weeks. The timeline can also depend on factors like DG (Distributed Generation) approvals and grid connection requirements. Working with a qualified installation team, such as Lightforce Solar, ensures the entire process is efficiently managed, leading to a smooth and timely installation.
New Zealand businesses can access depreciation tax benefits, low-interest loans, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to finance solar. Some councils offer rebates, and businesses can sell excess energy back to the grid for 7-16 cents per kWh. Top solar companies, like Lightforce Solar, provide various financing options, including CAPEX, PPA, or bank financing, to make solar more accessible.
Businesses can reduce energy costs by up to 50% or more with commercial solar. The exact savings depend on the system size and the business’s energy usage.
For example, Poulter Group cut energy costs by around $150,000 annually with a 488kW system, achieving full payback in just 5.2 years. On average, a 100kW system can achieve ROI in 4-7 years, depending on factors like energy consumption and financing options.
The cost of commercial solar systems varies based on factors such as system size, installation complexity, roof type, and financing options.
In New Zealand, typical costs for systems ranging from 100kW to 500kW can range from $130,000 to $750,000. Larger systems benefit from better economies of scale, reducing the cost per kW.
Businesses can also lower their upfront costs by using financing options such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), low-interest loans, or CAPEX investments, making solar more accessible and affordable.
Absolutely. Businesses can cut electricity costs by up to 50%, protect against rising power prices, and improve sustainability credentials.
A 100kW system can save a business $25,000+ annually, while larger systems achieve ROI in 4-7 years, depending on energy usage and financing.
Solar can also boost property value and make businesses more attractive to investors and eco-conscious customers. With PPAs, tax incentives, and low-interest loans, solar is now more affordable than ever.
Welcome to our Resource Hub: your obvious go-to for everything solar! From understanding how solar power and batteries work to exploring the latest renewable energy innovations like EVs, we’ve created this Knowledge Hub to answer your questions. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, our experts are here to help—just reach out!
Everything you need to know before purchasing a solar system
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