Solar Panels in New Zealand: Costs, Savings & How To Get Started

Home > Home Solar Info > Solar Pricing

Solar Panels in New Zealand: Costs, Savings & How To Get Started

Are you considering solar power? Great news: solar panels in New Zealand are more affordable than ever! Over the last 14 years, the cost of grid-connected solar power systems has dropped by over 75%, making clean energy accessible to more Kiwis.

How Much Does a Solar Power System Cost in 2024?

Back in 2008, a 3 kW solar power system cost around $40,000. Today, a fully installed 3 kW system costs approximately $8,000*.

While prices increased slightly in 2022 and 2023 due to global demand and supply chain issues, they're dropping again in 2025, due to the price of solar panels reducing in price signficantly.

The most common system size installed in New Zealand is a 5kW system which costs approximately $11,000*.

Get the Best Price on Solar

Use our free 3 Solar Quotes Service to compare competitive prices from top-rated installers.

The price for a 3kw solar power system in NZ graph

Typical Solar Power System Prices in NZ

The cost of a solar power system largely depends on the size of the system and the type of roof it’s installed on. Here’s a snapshot of typical residential solar system sizes in New Zealand and their approximate pricing. Lasted updated: 02/12/2024.

*Please only use these prices as a guide.  The solar power system prices assume straightforward installation on a metal roof. Prices can vary based on a number of factors.

Get Solar Panels The Easy Way, Get 3 Free Solar Quotes Now

Factors Affecting Solar System Prices

  • Roof Type: Metal/tin roofs are more cost-effective to install solar panels on, while tile or shingle roofs may incur extra costs.
  • Switchboard Upgrades: Older or non-compliant switchboards may need to be replaced.
  • Scaffolding: Required for homes with multiple stories.
  • Travel Costs: Installations in rural or remote areas may incur additional charges.
  • Lines Company Fees: Some companies charge a small fee ($100-$200) for connecting your system to the grid.

Getting Accurate Quotes And Shopping Around

You can get quotes from multiple solar installers for an accurate price to get solar installed on your home.

The price for a solar power system for each home or business will vary based on the complexity of the installation, the accessibility of the roof, the labour rates in your area and many other factors.

You can get the best possible price on a quality solar power system by doing your research. Start here by getting 3 free quotes.

How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?

Figuring out how many solar panels you need for your home in New Zealand doesn’t have to be a head-scratcher. It all comes down to your household’s energy habits, roof space, and how much sunshine your area gets.

Most Kiwi homes opt for systems between 4kW and 8kW, which translates to around 9 to 19 solar panels. The sweet spot for many is a 5kW system (roughly 12 panels), as it covers a hefty chunk of the average home’s energy needs at a more affordable price tag.

But how do you decide what’s right for you? Let’s break it down with three simple approaches:

  1. Max Your Budget: If you’re aiming to squeeze in as much solar as you can afford, start by getting 3 quotes. Let the installers know your budget, and they’ll recommend the best setup within your price range.
  2. Best Return On Investment: Use our handy solar calculator to tweak system sizes and see which one delivers the best return on investment. Or, skip straight to getting quotes and let the experts do the math.
  3. Go Big on Roof Space: Want to go all out? Install as many panels as your roof can handle. When you request free 3 quotes, solar installers can use satellite imaging and clever software to map out your roof and figure out the maximum panel count for your space.

Is Solar Power Worth It?

Investing in solar panels can generate a return of 10 to 15% annually, which increases as electricity prices climb. 

Unsure if solar panels on your roof will be worthwhile or if the upfront cost will lead to a good payback?  Use our solar calculator to see how much you could save and estimate your payback period.

solar calculator

Buyers Guide for Solar Power in New Zealand

The 2025 edition of the My Solar Quotes Buyers Guide for home solar panel installations takes you through the steps of purchasing a solar power system for your home, and the factors you will need to consider at each step. 

The guide includes ‘how to avoid dodgy traders’ and ‘details to look out for when comparing quotes’. View the solar power buyers guide here.

How Much Does a Solar Panel Cost?

Individual solar panels in New Zealand cost around $230 for a 440W panel. However, the total system cost includes inverters, mounting systems, and installation.

Find out how to choose solar panels here.

Should I Wait For The Price Of Solar To Fall?

The price of a solar power system has plummeted dramatically over the last decade, so we don't expect similarly drastic price drops in the future. Expect to see a 3 kW solar power system drop no more than a few hundred dollars every year, or even increase slightly.

In a few years a new solar power system's cost could fall, but the savings made on power bills (with a solar power system installed today) would mean greater savings in the long term.

There hasn't been a revolutionary change in solar power technology over the last 10 years - the energy collection concepts remain the same, but the technology gets incrementally more efficient yearly.

The term 'efficiency' in the solar world means the efficiency at which the panel converts sunlight into power.  At present, the average efficiency of a quality panel is 22%. According to GTM research, conventional panels are likely to improve by approximately 0.3% annually, which isn't fast by any means.

Solar Battery Prices

Batteries can be used to store solar power for use at night, during times of peak electricity demand and during blackouts. Learn more about solar batteries here.

Prices for a battery storage system accompanying a grid-connected solar power system will largely depend on the battery’s storage capacity, followed by the brand's reputation, quality and special features.

Generally, the more storage capacity is installed, the more expensive it is.  Find out if solar batteries are worth the cost or see the approximate prices for lithium-ion solar batteries.

Solar Battery Capacity Approximate Price Range
5 kWh $6,000 to $7,500
10 kWh $10,000 to $13,000
15 kWh $14,000 to $18,000

Note: All prices include GST

Compare Solar Battery Types And Prices>

Get 3 Free Quotes For Solar And Batteries>

Start Your Solar Journey Today!

Ready to take the next step? Use our free quote service to find the best deal on solar power and start saving on your electricity bills.

Get Started Now