Solar power

You can generate your own power using solar panels, wind turbines, micro-hydro systems, biomass and biogas engines, diesel or bio-diesel generators.

Most people opt for rooftop solar panels to generate their own power, as they are relatively easy and low cost to install and maintain.

A solar system is relatively affordable, easy to install, and has low maintenance requirements.

Most people choose rooftop panels, an inverter, and sometimes a battery bank system to store excess generation. There are a lots of companies who can offer installation and support for custom solar systems for your home.

There are many benefits to solar, but the main benefits are that:

• Going solar can save you money - you will generate free power to use. If you have excess electricity, you can sell it back to your power company and lower your power bill. If you don’t produce all of the power you consume, you will still reduce your power bill and save money. Also, it's likely that the price of electricity will rise, so a solar energy system will save you money in future.

• Going solar can increase your property value - research suggests that buyers are willing to pay more for a property with solar panels. Most of the expenses related to solar generation are upfront, so you can start saving money right away if you buy a house with solar panels.

• Going solar helps the environment - it creates clean, green energy and is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Going solar demonstrates your commitment to sustainability and will help New Zealand achieve its target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Solar is a great way to generate your own power, but solar panels are better suited to some situations that other. Here's some factors to consider:

• Solar output can vary significantly depending on the weather. Even modest cloud cover can reduce the output of the power generated by a large amount compared to direct sunlight.

• Solar power systems work across Aotearoa but perform best in regions with high sunshine hours eg, Nelson/Marlborough or the Far North. They are better value if you are at home during the day to use the electricity generated and can be big power users eg, your hot water, spas and electric car chargers. Or if you are a business with consistently high electricity demand during the day eg, air conditioning, tools.

• To use electricity when solar panels produce less (in the morning, evenings or in winter), you can buy electricity from your power company or install a battery system to store the energy generated during the day.

You will need to assess your property for its suitability for solar panels. Your panels need to face north to get the best power production. Your roof will ideally be north-east to north-west-facing, with a 15 to 45° pitch. Contact a solar company to assess your property for solar viability.

Yes, there are rules and regulations that you must comply with for solar generation.

If you connect your solar panels to the grid to sell back power, you must comply with Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010. This includes adhering to standards for the power inverter and rules around connecting to the distribution network.

Solar power systems can overload power lines. You will need to contact and work with your local lines company who will advise you of their network connection rules. They have established criteria and require approval when new systems are connected to the lines. They will help ensure you are connecting the correct type of power inverter for their network. Typically they require an inverter with the function to be remotely turned off in the event of an overpower situation.

The Electricity Authority doesn't require consumers with their own generation systems to register with us as generator participants, unless the system is capable of exporting more than 10 megawatts back into the grid.

Solar power systems typically don’t require council consent. However, check with your local council or ask your solar installer.