Now that you have said “go” there are a few important steps to tick off before we can get onto your roof.
This is when things get exciting! The day our solar technicians and electricians head over to install your system.
The panels are now on your roof, but there are still a couple of key steps before you are running off the power of the sun.
You are now up and running, and you will be starting to see just how much you are saving on power every day. Now its ensuring you are getting the most out of your system.
When you’re happy with your solar system design, we’ll send you a 50% deposit request. Once you’ve paid that, we’ll swing into action.
We’ll check that we have all the info we need – like your power bill and switchboard photos. If not, we’ll reach out.
Next, we’ll apply for Distributed Generation (DG) from your lines company. Once we receive approval, we can book your install.
This stage depends on how quickly your lines company can give us approval, which varies from region to region and could take up to 30 working days.
Our in-house solar installers and electricians will head over and install your solar system.
It usually takes us 1–2 days, but we might need longer if your system’s bigger or more complicated.
Once we’ve finished the install, we’ll send you an invoice for the final 50%. You’re now set up to use the sun’s energy to power your home.
But before you can start using solar, you will need a smart meter to manage solar exports and a certified solar inspector to sign off your system. We’ll book this for you, so you don’t have to do anything.
We’ll book in a certified solar inspector to run a thorough check of your system. Once your system has been signed off, and as long as your smart meter has been installed, then you are now safe to turn your system on and start running on solar.
After we’ve installed your system, we’ll request your power company to switch over your current meter to a new import-export smart meter. The timing of this meter change is out of our control, and rests with your power company. Once this meter has been installed, and the inspection completed and signed off (see above), then you will be able to switch on your system and start using the sun’s power.
Please note that if the system is turned on while a smart meter is not installed, then your power company will charge you for the solar exported to the grid instead of credited for it. So do wait until the smart meter has been installed.
We will send over your document pack, certificate of compliance, and record of inspection once your system has been inspected and signed off.
If we’ve installed solar monitoring with your system, it may take 4–6 weeks to fully calibrate, depending on your monitoring package. After that, you’ll get accurate readings on how much energy you’re producing, using, storing and sending back to the grid.
We’re here for you for the lifetime of your system, for decades to come. We also have direct access to your monitoring platform. So if there are any issues, we can fix them from our headquarters or via our local teams. Whether you’re in Northland, Christchurch, or somewhere in between, help is never far away.
Over a decade ago, Lightforce Solar was founded by an electrician who saw the obvious potential of solar energy in shaping New Zealand’s future. With a mission to create a lighter environmental footprint and a brighter community impact, Lightforce Solar has grown from a one-man operation to a market leader, responsible for 20% of all solar installs in New Zealand and supported by a team of over 100 experts nationwide.
It’s obvious that energy prices will continue to rise, and that power shortages will become more frequent. The sun is obviously the simplest, most affordable, and sustainable energy solution. We are committed to helping Kiwis take control of their power with high-quality, cost-effective solar systems—because you obviously want the best advice, products, and installation.
At Lightforce Solar, we believe every New Zealander deserves the freedom of energy independence. That’s why we’ve already helped thousands of homes and businesses switch to clean, renewable energy, cutting costs and reducing their carbon footprint.
At Lightforce Solar, we make clean energy the obvious choice. We’re committed to making solar power accessible, affordable, and innovative—helping Kiwis take control of their energy future.
By leading the way in renewable solutions, we empower homes and businesses to reduce costs, cut carbon, and embrace sustainability. The future is solar, and with Lightforce Solar, it’s brighter than ever.
