Is it worth installing solar panels NZ?
New Zealand has seen a surge in interest towards renewable energy, with solar energy at the forefront of this green revolution. Across the country, homeowners and businesses are increasingly turning to solar panels as a way to harness the abundant energy of the sun.
This shift not only reflects a growing concern for the environment but also an understanding of the long-term economic benefits that solar energy can offer. As we continue to seek sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions, solar panels present a viable and promising option for many in New Zealand. So today, we want to answer the question, is it worth installing solar panels in NZ?
But we may be a little bit biased…
The State of Solar Energy in New Zealand
The solar energy sector in New Zealand is experiencing robust growth, reflecting a nationwide shift towards renewable energy. As of December 2022, New Zealand boasted 255 megawatts (MW) of grid-connected solar power. Remarkably 25% of this capacity, was installed within that year alone. Over the 12 months leading to September 2022, these installations generated approximately 249 gigawatt-hours of electricity, accounting for 0.57% of the country's total electricity generation! Pretty impressive!
In terms of installations, there were 45,761 solar power systems installed across New Zealand by the end of December 2022. These installations are not just limited to residential properties; the average residential system size was 5.7 kW, while the average commercial system was much larger at 38.4 kW. It’s a great moment for us here at Steel to reflect on these numbers knowing that we played a big role in the Auckland installation numbers.
Benefits of Solar Panels
Installing solar panels offers several key benefits.
Environmentally, they contribute to reducing carbon emissions, which helps in decreasing air pollution and tackling climate change. Financially, solar panels can lead to significant savings on electricity bills. Over time, the energy generated can offset the cost of your power usage. Additionally, there are often rebate programmes available to make solar installation more affordable. Beyond these, solar panels provide energy independence, reducing reliance on traditional power sources. They also potentially increase your property's value, as homes with solar panels are often more attractive to buyers.
Considerations Before Installing Solar Panels
When considering installing solar panels, it's important to think about three main factors: roof suitability, location, and sunlight exposure.
Roof Suituality:
Condition: Is your roof in good condition, free from leaks or major wear? Solar panel installation requires a sturdy surface.
Size and Shape: Can your roof accommodate the desired number of panels, considering their size and layout? Complex roof shapes might require custom installations.
Angle: Ideally, your roof should face north in the Southern Hemisphere (with some flexibility depending on your latitude). However, other angles can still be viable with careful panel placement.
Location:
Latitude: Your geographic location impacts the angle of the sun and the amount of available sunlight throughout the year.
Shading: Consider any nearby buildings, trees, or hills that might cast shadows on your roof throughout the day.
Local Regulations: Check your local regulations for any permits or restrictions regarding solar panel installations.
Sunlight Exposure:
Direct Sunlight: Ideally, your roof should receive unobstructed sunlight for most of the day, particularly during peak sun hours.
Azimuth: The compass direction your roof faces plays a crucial role. North is ideal, but panels can still generate good energy when facing east or west with proper tilting.
When it comes to installing solar panels, selecting the right installer and equipment is critical. A skilled and experienced installer, like the team at Steel Solar & Electrical, can accurately assess your home's energy needs and ensure that the system is installed correctly, maximizing efficiency and performance.
The quality of the solar panels is also vital, as higher-quality panels usually capture more sunlight and convert it into electricity more efficiently, ensuring better performance and longer lifespan. When you choose to partner with Steel, we use only the best-quality panels. When it comes to solar, just remember, you get what you pay for. So when you are considering the initial investment, Steel will discuss with you what the long-term savings are when you are deciding to install solar panels.
Conclusion
The journey towards solar in New Zealand is not just an investment in sustainable energy, but also a step towards a brighter, cleaner future. With all the benefits and the growth in solar technology, it's worth considering.
If you're feeling inspired or just curious about how solar could work for you, our team at Steel Solar & Electrical is here to chat. We're excited to help you explore how solar energy can light up your life.
Let's make the most of our sunny Auckland days!