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So, you’ve decided to go solar (great choice!) — but now you’re staring down the next big question: how big should your solar power system be?
Good news: you don’t need to become an overnight energy expert. Most quality solar installers can recommend the Goldilocks size for your home — not too big, not too small, just right. But it is worth wrapping your head around the basics so you know what you’re buying and why. Let’s break it down.
When you request your 3 free quotes through My Solar Quotes, you can always click the easy option:
"I don't know — please suggest the best system size for me."
Once your request goes out, solar installers will crunch the numbers based on:
Curious how many panels you’ll need? Find out here »
If solar pros sound like they’re speaking a different language, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
If you want the full scoop (with easy visuals), check out our quick explainer video below 👇
| Solar Power System Size | Annual Generation* | What It Means |
| 3kW | ~3,500 - 4,000 kWh | Great for low-energy households or adding a little solar without breaking the bank. |
| 6kW | ~6,500 - 8,000 kWh | Very popular. Affordable (~$11,000) and makes a solid dent on your power bills. |
| 10kW | ~11,000 - 13,500 kWh | This larger size can almost eliminate most Kiwis’ power bills - and might even earn you credit. It’s also a good size if you’re thinking about adding a solar battery. |
| 15kW | ~16,500 -22,500 kWh | Once considered huge for a home, this size is becoming more common — ideal if you’ve got energy-hungry luxuries like a spa pool, underfloor heating, or an EV. |
&Generation numbers given here are only to give you a rough idea. For a more accurate picture, try our solar calculator.
Ah, the million-dollar question. A 6kW system might match most kiwis' energy usage, but unless you can use most of that solar power while it’s being generated, you’ll still buy some electricity from the grid. And if you export excess solar, power companies will pay you less compared to what they charge. See buy-back rates here>
Pro tip: If you want to get your bill as low as possible:
A 5kW Solar Power System In Masterton NZ - Thanks Jeff!
A 6kW grid connected solar power system has proved to be a popular system size in New Zealand, due to the fact that it will make a significant dent in those power bills and is relatively affordable (around $11,000).
In Auckland, a 6kW system typically generates around 8,000 kWh per year. While it probably won’t wipe out your power bill entirely over a full year, you might enjoy the occasional $0 bill during the sunny summer months.
A 6kW solar power system usually means you’ve got around 6kW worth of panels on your roof — for example, 12 x 420W panels. These are typically paired with an inverter capable of converting up to 6kW of solar power into usable electricity for your home.
Sounds simple, right? But here’s where it gets interesting:
A 6kW also means solar power system means the panels could produce up to 6 kilowatts of power at any given moment. But here’s the catch:
So while the "6kW" refers to peak power, it’s the annual energy production (measured in kilowatt-hours, or kWh) that really matters when it comes to reducing your power bill.
Want to start with a smaller solar power system, then increase the systems capacity by adding solar panels later? Smart move. This is where you'd consider the solar inverter size and type. Here’s the options:
Honestly? You don’t need to lose sleep over kilowatts and kilowatt-hours. Your installer’s job is to design the perfect system for your home and budget.
Just tell us a bit about your power use and we’ll connect you with trusted local solar pros who can take it from there.
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