Question 1

How much do solar panels cost in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels are more affordable than ever in NZ. A typical 5kW home solar system costs roughly $8,000 – $10,000 fully installed (around $2,000 per kilowatt of capacity). Prices have nearly halved in the past decade, making solar a cost-effective investment for Kiwi homeowners. Larger systems cost a bit less per kW, and competition among installers keeps pricing competitive and within reach for most households.

Question 2

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?

Accepted Answer

In New Zealand, solar power savings add up quickly, so a typical grid-tied system pays for itself in about 5 to 8 years. That means an annual return on investment around 10–15% through power bill savings significantly better than bank interest rates. High daytime power users (for example, households with someone home during the day or an EV to charge) can reach payback even sooner, especially as electricity prices keep rising.

Question 3

What size solar system do I need for my home?

Accepted Answer

The ideal system size depends on your household's energy usage and roof space. Many New Zealand homes opt for about a 4kW to 6kW solar array, which is roughly 10–16 panels, to cover a large portion of their daily power needs. For example, a 5kW system (around 12 panels) can produce about 20+ kilowatt-hours on a good sunny day, enough to significantly cut an average family's usage.

Question 4

How do grid-connected solar systems work?

Accepted Answer

A grid-connected solar power system lets you use solar energy while staying linked to the electricity grid. During the day, your solar panels generate electricity which your home uses first, cutting what you draw from the grid. Any excess solar power automatically flows into the grid, and your power company gives you credits or payments for it. When your panels aren't producing (like at night or on very cloudy days), your home seamlessly pulls electricity from the grid as usual.

Question 5

Do I need a solar battery or just panels?

Accepted Answer

Most NZ homeowners start with just solar panels, you don't need a battery to enjoy big savings. In a grid-connected system, your panels power your home during the day and any extra energy goes back to the grid for credits on your bill, covering your night-time use. Adding a solar battery is optional, it lets you store surplus energy to use after sundown or as backup in outages. However, batteries do add significant cost, and currently a battery isn't necessary to make solar worthwhile.

Question 6

How do I choose a solar installer?

Accepted Answer

Choose a reputable solar installer with a proven track record in New Zealand. It's wise to get multiple quotes and compare, not just on price, but on the quality of equipment and service. Look for installers who use quality panels and inverters and offer long-term warranties (25+ years for panels and around 5–10 years for workmanship/inverters is common). Check customer reviews or ask for recent local references to ensure they have a history of happy clients and reliable after-sales support.

Question 7

Are solar panels worth it in NZ's climate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, New Zealand's climate is great for solar panels. We receive plenty of sunshine across the country, and panels actually perform more efficiently in cooler temperatures (which are common here) than in extreme heat. Even on cloudy days, modern solar panels still produce electricity (just at a reduced output), and NZ's long daylight hours in summer give a strong solar boost. With a well-positioned array (ideally north-facing with minimal shading) solar panels in NZ can reliably slash your power bills.

Get Your Free Solar Roof Analysis

The right installer for your home, the first time

The SolarScout Difference

Tell us about your home

Get your roof analysis

Get matched with a vetted installer

Connect and start saving

Tell us about your home

Get your roof analysis

Get matched with a vetted installer

Connect and start saving

Frequently Asked
Questions

How much do solar panels cost in New Zealand?

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?

What size solar system do I need for my home?

How do grid-connected solar systems work?

Do I need a solar battery or just panels?

How do I choose a solar installer?

Are solar panels worth it in NZ's climate?

Get Your Free Solar Roof Analysis

The right installer for your home, the first time

The SolarScout Difference

Tell us about your home

Get your roof analysis

Get matched with a vetted installer

Connect and start saving

Tell us about your home

Get your roof analysis

Get matched with a vetted installer

Connect and start saving

Frequently AskedQuestions

How much do solar panels cost in New Zealand?

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?

What size solar system do I need for my home?

How do grid-connected solar systems work?

Do I need a solar battery or just panels?

How do I choose a solar installer?

Are solar panels worth it in NZ's climate?

Frequently Asked
Questions