NZ residential solar: rules, grid connection, buy-back, sizing and consumer-law research

Research notes for the "solar system builder" guide (homeowners and DIYers). Compiled 16/08/2026. Every factual claim carries a source URL. Anything that could not be confirmed against a primary or official source is marked UNVERIFIED. Prices are NZD. Times/dates are NZ.

Legend for source quality: - [primary] legislation, Code, regulator, distributor or retailer page read directly. - [secondary] trade press, comparison sites, installer blogs. Use for colour, not for hard claims.

1. Legal and compliance

1.1 What is "prescribed electrical work" (PEW)

PEW is defined by reg 6 + Schedule 1 of the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010 (ESR). Schedule 1 cl 1(1) makes PEW "the installation, connection, or maintenance of conductors used in works or installations", "the installation, connection, or maintenance of fittings where the fittings are connected, or intended to be connected, to conductors used in works or installations", connection/disconnection of fittings to a power supply other than by plug, and the testing, certification, inspection and supervision of that work. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
Schedule 1 cl 2 lists work that is NOT PEW. Relevant carve-out: "work done on installations, fittings, or appliances that (i) are intended solely for connection to, or are associated solely with, electricity supplies not exceeding extra-low voltage; and (ii) are not in a hazardous area". [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
"Extra-low voltage" (ELV) means "any voltage normally not exceeding 50 volts AC or 120 volts ripple-free DC" (ESR reg 4 definitions). [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
WorkSafe's PV certification note: because an inverter is a fitting (not an appliance), installing it is PEW and needs certification. On the DC side, work on ELV DC circuits "will not be PEW, therefore will not require certification or an inspection", although AS/NZS 5033 compliance still applies; DC at low voltage (typical residential string arrays run well above 120 V DC) IS PEW and needs inspection and a Record of Inspection. [primary] https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-media/certification-requirements-for-photovoltaic-pv-systems/

1.2 PV and grid-tied inverters are HIGH-RISK PEW

ESR reg 6A(2)(a) defines high-risk PEW to include work that "comprises or includes the installation, or adjustment of the settings, of ... (iii) a mains parallel generation system in an installation: (iv) a photovoltaic system in an installation". [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
"Mains parallel generation system" means fittings used to generate electricity for the person's own use that "are capable of supplying electricity to fittings that, at the same time, are supplied with electricity from other systems of electrical supply" (i.e. a grid-tied inverter). [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
Reg 70: "All high-risk prescribed electrical work done on a low or extra-low voltage installation or part installation must be inspected" and the inspector "must undertake whatever tests, visual inspection, or other actions are necessary" to be satisfied the work complies and is electrically safe. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
WorkSafe: where a mains inverter is grid-connected, "the inverter must be installed to comply with standards AS/NZS 3000 and AS 4777.1, and this work is categorised as high-risk prescribed electrical work (PEW) which will require certification and a record of inspection (ROI)". [primary] https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-media/certification-requirements-for-photovoltaic-pv-systems/
EWRB paperwork guide: high-risk categories "include Mains Work, PV Solar" and require a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) plus a Record of Inspection (RoI) issued by an inspector "independent and not associated in any way" with the work; an Electrical Safety Certificate (ESC) is required for every risk category; certificates must be issued "within 20 days"; records kept 7 years. [primary] https://www.ewrb.govt.nz/resources-2/toolbox/what-paperwork-do-i-need-to-complete/
ESR reg 74A: the person who completed PEW on an installation "must issue an electrical safety certificate" once satisfied it is "electrically safe and complies with these regulations", and the ESC must state the installation is connected to a power supply and safe to use. Reg 74F requires details of high-risk work to be lodged on the high-risk database. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
Certificate templates (CoC / ESC / ROI) are published by WorkSafe. [primary] https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/electricity/appliances-and-fittings/electrical-certification-and-record-of-inspection-templates/

1.3 The homeowner ("domestic electrical wiring work") exemption and its limits

Electricity Act 1992 s 79: an owner who occupies (or intends to occupy) premises as their residence may do electrical wiring work there if it is within limits set by regulations, done competently and safely, not connected to supply while being done, and (where regulations require) tested, certified and connected by a licensed person. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1992/0122/latest/whole.html
ESR reg 57 sets the limits. Work must be done and tested per ECP 51; applies only to a domestic installation with maximum demand at or below 80 A per phase single-phase (50 A multi-phase). Permitted work is limited to: (a) removing/replacing fuse links; (b) connecting/disconnecting fixed-wired appliances; (c) relocating existing switches, socket-outlets and lighting outlets fed by TPS cable; (d) replacing switches, sockets, light fittings, ceiling roses, batten holders, water-heater switches, thermostats and elements "but only if the work does not involve work on a switchboard"; (e) "installing, extending, and altering subcircuits (including submains), but only if" the person does not enter any enclosure where live conductors are likely, AND the work is tested and certified per Part 2 of AS/NZS 3000 "before being connected to a power supply, by a person authorised to inspect mains work". [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/DLM2763688.html
Does it cover PV? WorkSafe says no: "The use of ECP51 (homeowner/occupier's electrical wiring work in domestic installations) does not cover work on PV systems." Systems above 50 V AC or 120 V ripple-free DC, and any part with 230 V terminations, "require a registered electrician to install them". [primary] https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-media/diy-solar-installation
Practical reading: a homeowner may legally assemble a fully ELV system (e.g. a 12/24/48 V DC off-grid kit with no 230 V side) because that is not PEW at all (Schedule 1 cl 2(b)/(c)); anything grid-tied, or with a string voltage above 120 V DC, or with 230 V AC wiring, is high-risk PEW for a licensed electrical worker plus an independent inspector. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html and https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-media/diy-solar-installation
Panel mounting (racking, rails, clamps, roof fixings): not electrical work, so not PEW. Whether the owner may do it is a Building Act question, and building work that does not require a consent is not "restricted building work", so no LBP is needed. [primary] https://www.building.govt.nz/projects-and-consents/planning-a-successful-build/scope-and-design/choosing-the-right-people-for-your-type-of-building-work/use-licensed-professionals-for-restricted-building-work/restricted-building-work (owner-builder / RBW pages). Note that the exempt-work conditions still require Building Code compliance (structure B1, weathertightness E2), see 1.5.
UNVERIFIED (interpretive): whether a homeowner may plug MC4 leads between panels while the array is un-energised and leave all termination to the electrician. WorkSafe's guidance is written on the assumption the electrician installs the PV system; no official text was found that expressly permits homeowner DC string assembly above 120 V DC. Treat as "electrician's job".

1.4 Standards that apply

ESR reg 59: every low/ELV domestic installation must be "installed, tested, inspected, and connected so as to comply with Part 2 of AS/NZS 3000". [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
ESR Schedule 2 cites AS/NZS 5033:2021 "Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic (PV) arrays" and AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 "Grid connection of energy systems via inverters, Part 2: Inverter requirements, including Amendment 1". [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2010/0036/latest/whole.html
WorkSafe (grid-connected): AS/NZS 5033 (arrays), AS 4777.1 (inverter installation), AS/NZS 5139 for battery storage "as best practice"; stand-alone systems: AS/NZS 4509. [primary] https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-media/diy-solar-installation
The Electricity Industry Participation Code requires, for the streamlined ≤10 kW pathway, that the DG "is designed and installed in accordance with AS/NZS 4777.1:2016" and uses an inverter with a Declaration of Conformity to AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 from an IANZ-recognised lab (Sch 6.1 cl 1D). [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/documents/2549/Code_-Part_6-Connection_of_distributed_generation-_1_APRIL_2023.pdf
BRANZ Level (govt-funded, updated 19/12/2025) lists the standard set for dwellings: AS/NZS 1170.2:2021 (wind), AS/NZS 3000:2018, NZS 4219:2009 (seismic), AS/NZS 5033:2021, AS/NZS 4509.1/.2 (stand-alone), AS/NZS 5139:2019 (battery safety), and SNZ PAS 6014:2025 "Residential solar photovoltaics (PV) and battery storage systems guidelines"; it also says "Installation of the system must be carried out by an electrician with a current practising licence" and the homeowner should receive an ESC. [primary] https://www.level.org.nz/energy/renewable-electricity-generation/photovoltaic-pv-systems/
EWRB "which standards apply" toolbox page. [primary] https://www.ewrb.govt.nz/resources-2/toolbox/which-standards-apply/

Building (Exempt Roof-mounted Solar Panel Arrays and Building Work) Order 2025 (SL 2025/216), made 22/09/2025, in force 23/10/2025, inserts new Schedule 1 clauses. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2025/0216/latest/whole.html
New cl 28D (Part 1, no engineer needed): "Building work in connection with 1 or more solar panel arrays mounted on a roof if (a) the array does not, or ... the arrays in total area do not, exceed 40 square metres; and (b) the array is ... supported by a frame or structure; and (c) the frame or structure is attached to the roof with structural fixings; and (d) either (i) the design wind speeds do not exceed 44 metres per second (calculated using Verification Method B1/VM1); or (ii) the array is located in a wind zone no greater than high (as defined in Acceptable Solution B1/AS1)." [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2025/0216/latest/whole.html
New cl 48A (Part 3, design carried out or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer): arrays over 40 m² total, or where design wind speed exceeds 44 m/s. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2025/0216/latest/whole.html
The explanatory note: "a building consent will no longer be required ... However, the building work must still comply with the building code as well as the other conditions set out in section 42A(2) of the Building Act 2004." [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2025/0216/latest/whole.html
MBIE (24/10/2025): "New Zealanders can now install rooftop solar without a building consent"; the exemption "has now been extended to apply to all buildings"; for arrays over 40 m² "or in high wind speed areas (classified as 44 metres per second or more, or over 158 Km/H), a chartered professional engineer must either provide or review the installation design"; "most residential rooftop solar arrays are generally between 25 to 30 square metres in size". [primary] https://www.mbie.govt.nz/about/news/green-light-to-rooftop-solar-and-sustainable-buildings
EWRB summary of the change: "Although a building consent is not required, building owners still need to comply with the Building Code, local District Plan and the building consent exemption conditions." [primary] https://www.ewrb.govt.nz/about-us/news-and-notices/solar-panel-consent-exemption-changes/
MBIE guidance page 14.3 (technical requirements for exempt work) reportedly adds practical conditions: arrays "at least 600 mm away from roof edges and gutters" and "must not extend beyond the roofline". UNVERIFIED wording: the building.govt.nz page is behind a bot-wall and could not be read directly; this comes from search-engine snippets of https://www.building.govt.nz/projects-and-consents/planning-a-successful-build/scope-and-design/check-if-you-need-consents/building-work-that-doesnt-need-a-building-consent/technical-requirements-for-exempt-building-work/14-other-structures/14-3-roof-mounted-solar-panel-arrays-of-less-than-40-square-metres-in-size
No weight limit appears in the Order itself; the constraints are area, wind zone/speed, frame + structural fixings, and Building Code compliance (which brings in B1 structure for roof loading and E2 weathertightness for penetrations). [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2025/0216/latest/whole.html
Ground-mounted arrays are a separate exemption (Schedule 1 "other structures", MBIE notes 14.1/14.2). [primary] https://www.building.govt.nz/projects-and-consents/planning-a-successful-build/scope-and-design/check-if-you-need-consents/building-work-that-doesnt-need-a-building-consent/technical-requirements-for-exempt-building-work/14-other-structures/notes-for-ground-mounted-solar-panel-arrays-14-1-14-2 (page not readable through the bot-wall; existence confirmed via search index) UNVERIFIED detail.

1.6 Council / district plan rules

The building-consent exemption does not touch the Resource Management Act. Council pages warn that heritage/special character overlays, height-to-boundary and site-coverage rules can trigger resource consent; e.g. Kaipara DC: "check your proposal does not breech planning regulations" and roof-cladding-integrated PV "may affect height-to-boundary restrictions. This may trigger the need for a resource consent". [primary] https://www.kaipara.govt.nz/solar-panels (note: that page's building-consent text predates the 23/10/2025 exemption, so treat its consent statements as stale)
Auckland Unitary Plan Historic Heritage Overlay (D17) governs alterations to scheduled places; whether panels on a scheduled or special-character building need consent depends on the overlay rules. [primary] https://unitaryplan.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/Images/Auckland%20Unitary%20Plan%20Operative/Chapter%20D%20Overlays/3.%20Built%20Heritage%20and%20Character/D17%20Historic%20Heritage%20Overlay.pdf UNVERIFIED specifics: no council was found publishing a solar-specific permitted-activity rule; the safe guide statement is "check the district plan overlay map; heritage/character overlays may need resource consent".
EECA's guide says ground-mounted systems must comply with the Building Code and "council's district plan rules". [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/plan-your-solar-system/

2. Grid connection (distributed generation, DG)

2.1 Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010

Part 6 / Schedule 6.1 provides two pathways for DG of 10 kW or less: Part 1 (standard, one-stage) and Part 1A (streamlined, elective, for compliant inverter systems). Part 2 covers >10 kW. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/documents/2549/Code_-Part_6-Connection_of_distributed_generation-_1_APRIL_2023.pdf
Part 1A eligibility (cl 1D): DG "designed and installed in accordance with AS/NZS 4777.1:2016" with an inverter that has an AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 Declaration of Conformity from an IANZ-recognised lab and settings meeting the distributor's connection and operation standards; until 01/09/2026 it must also have volt-watt and volt-var modes and an export limit within the distributor's threshold. [primary] same PDF
Part 1A application (cl 9B): name/address, fee (if any), inverter make/model, whether it is on the distributor's approved-inverter list or a copy of the AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 DoC, nameplate capacity and fuel type; CoC and ICP must be supplied "no later than 10 business days after the approval"; distributor must acknowledge within 2 business days. [primary] same PDF
Part 1A decision (cl 9F): distributor must give final approval "no later than 10 business days after the date on which the application was submitted", and "If the distributed generator does not receive a notice by [that] date ... the distributor is deemed to have given notice of final approval." [primary] same PDF
Part 1 (cl 2, 3, 4): distributor must say within 5 business days whether the application is complete; must approve or decline "within 30 business days after the date of receipt of a completed application"; may seek an extension of up to 20 business days which the applicant "must not unreasonably withhold". [primary] same PDF
Maximum fees (Schedule 6.5, excl GST): Part 1 application $200, observation of testing/inspection $60; Part 1A application $100, inspection $60, deficiency fee $80; >10 kW to <100 kW application $500; 100 kW to <1 MW $1,000; ≥1 MW $5,000. Distributors may charge less or nothing. [primary] same PDF
Regulated terms (Schedule 6.2) apply by default once approved; disputes go via Schedule 6.3. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/code-and-compliance/the-code-electricity-industry-participation-code-2010/part-6-connection-of-distributed-generation/
The EA's DG landing page also links "Guidelines for connection of small-scale distributed generation to a local network" and a June 2025 letter on new voltage limits in the ESR. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/industry/distribution/distributed-generation/
Note: the Part 6 PDF read is the 1 April 2023 consolidation; the 2026 export-limit amendments (below) modify Parts 1 and 6 from 11/05/2026 and 01/12/2026. Check the current consolidation before quoting clause numbers.

2.2 Export limits: the 2026 shift to 10 kW

EA press release 07/04/2026: lines companies "must now set a default export limit of 10kW for residential connections where feasible", or offer flexible/dynamic limits; "about 75,000 households with solar" currently feed in. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/news/press-release/new-rules-encourage-more-solar-to-networks/
The Code amendment "introduce[s] a default static export limit of 10kW for applications under the Part 1A process ... or offer a dynamic or flexible export limit (with a minimum 10kW limit when the export is not being controlled during congested periods), or apply lower static limits where justified, after a standardised network assessment"; in force 11/05/2026 except clauses 15 to 20 (01/12/2026); it also mandates default "Australia A" volt-response settings under AS/NZS 4777.2:2020. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/code-and-compliance/code-amendments/export-limits/
EA tracker of distributor progress toward 10 kW defaults (traffic-light dashboard, last updated 01/05/2026). [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/data-and-insights/charts-and-dashboards/shift-to-10kw-export-limits/
Historic context: the common pre-2026 default was 5 kW per phase on single-phase connections (e.g. Wellington Electricity: "currently has a 5kW export limit on single phase connections"; Powerco and Unison describe raising single-phase limits "from 5kW up to 10kW"). [primary] https://www.welectricity.co.nz/disclosures/submissions/electricity-authority/document/421 ; https://www.powerco.co.nz/get-connected/solar-power-for-home-and-business ; https://www.unison.co.nz/tell-me-about/electricity/solar-distributed-generation/dg-equipment-of-10-kw-or-less/

2.3 Distributor examples (as at 16/08/2026)

EDB	≤10 kW process and fee	Export limit	Inverter list	Timeframes / post-install
Wellington Electricity	Online application; fee "Application Fee <10kW connection size: $100" and "Fee for Inspection <10kW connection size: $60". [primary] https://www.welectricity.co.nz/getting-connected/generating-your-own-electricity	From 11/05/2026 "flexible export limits": price signals lower injection back to a 5 kW baseline during congestion, up to 10 kW otherwise; WE told the EA it is "not currently considering a default export limit of 10kW (or greater)". [primary] https://www.welectricity.co.nz/getting-connected/generating-your-own-electricity/small-systems-with-capacity-of-10-kilowatts-or-less-10kw ; https://www.welectricity.co.nz/disclosures/submissions/electricity-authority/document/421	Requires "Declaration of Conformity with AS/NZS4777.2:2020" and refers to the Clean Energy Council approved list. [primary] https://www.welectricity.co.nz/getting-connected/generating-your-own-electricity	After install, email the ROI and CoC. [primary] same
Vector (Auckland)	Email application to [email protected] with address, ICP and export amount; page states no fee (none listed). [primary] https://vector.co.nz/our-services/connect-your-distributed-power-generation/connect-power-generation---10kw-or-less	From 11/05/2026 "Dynamic DG export connections" let eligible single-phase customers export up to 10 kW; inverter must meet AS/NZS 4777.2 and be CSIP-capable. [primary] same	"Check your inverter is approved and compliant using our approved list"; otherwise supply datasheet + Certificate of Suitability. Approval "10 business days (approved inverters) or 30 business days (non-approved)". [primary] same	CoC "within 10 working days after installation" referencing AS/NZS 4777.1 and AS/NZS 3000. [primary] same
Orion (Christchurch)	Online portal, fee payable before processing; $92 incl GST for <15 kW (search-index figure from Orion's page; UNVERIFIED against a fee schedule read directly). [primary process] https://www.oriongroup.co.nz/connections/generation/under-15kw	From 01/04/2026 new and existing installs "will be able to apply for an increased export limit"; Orion "intends to allow export at or above 10kW per phase" where studies show capacity, case-by-case. [primary] https://www.oriongroup.co.nz/our-story/the-latest/export-limits	Inverter must conform to AS/NZS 4777.2; pre-approved list speeds approval; new list from 01/04/2026. [primary] same two pages	Submit CoC + ROI within 10 working days; "You must not energise your generation system until Orion has acknowledged receipt of these documents". [primary] https://www.oriongroup.co.nz/connections/generation/under-15kw
Powerco	Installer submits DG application; "Up to 10kW: No charge"; 10 to 100 kW $500 excl GST. [primary] https://www.powerco.co.nz/get-connected/solar-power-for-home-and-business	Single-phase export "increased from 5kW to 10kW", subject to transformer capacity. [primary] same	"must use an approved inverter". [primary] same	Assessment "within five working days"; CoC + Commissioning Declaration after install; customer arranges metering with retailer. [primary] same
Unison (Hawke's Bay, Rotorua, Taupō)	DG1 form by email/post; fees from 01/11/2024: application/admin $140 excl GST, deficiency $110, inspection $90. [primary] https://www.unison.co.nz/tell-me-about/electricity/solar-distributed-generation/dg-equipment-of-10-kw-or-less/	Up to 10 kW single-phase, "the actual amount able to be exported ... will always depend on the available capacity"; no export charges. [primary] same	AS/NZS 4777 parts 1 and 2; check the Clean Energy Council list; non-listed inverters need pre-approval. [primary] same	Acknowledgement within 2 business days; retailer supplies two-way meter and may move you to a DGEN rate category. [primary] same

Note on the Unison fee: $140 exceeds the $100 Part 1A cap but is under the $200 Part 1 cap, so it appears to be charged under Part 1. UNVERIFIED which pathway Unison's DG1 form uses.

2.4 Approved-inverter lists and the CEC list

The Code lets each distributor publish "the distributor's list of approved inverters" (cl 6.3(2)(f)) and accepts a manufacturer's AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 Declaration of Conformity where the inverter is not listed. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/documents/2549/Code_-Part_6-Connection_of_distributed_generation-_1_APRIL_2023.pdf
In practice Vector, Wellington Electricity and Unison point applicants at the Australian Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved-inverter list, and Orion maintains its own pre-approved list. [primary] links in the table above; CEC list https://cleanenergycouncil.org.au/industry-programs/products-program/inverters
There is no NZ-wide statutory "approved inverter" register; the CEC list is a convenience adopted by EDBs. UNVERIFIED as a general statement for all 29 EDBs; verified for the five above.

2.5 Retailer / metering steps for buy-back

BRANZ Level: "The property owner will need to apply to the local lines company to allow the solar PV system to be connected to the grid ... to receive money for the surplus generation, an agreement needs to be reached with the electricity retailer." [primary] https://www.level.org.nz/energy/renewable-electricity-generation/photovoltaic-pv-systems/
Orion step 2: "Contact Your Electricity Retailer ... arrange import/export metering ... Meter rental charges may apply"; metering is mandatory even if export seems unlikely. [primary] https://www.oriongroup.co.nz/connections/generation/under-15kw
Meridian: import/export meter installation "costs approximately $150"; a communicating smart meter is required for the winter-peak rate. [primary] https://www.meridianenergy.co.nz/for-home/pricing-rates/solar
Frank: needs network DG approval, a completed DG form, and acceptance of the metering fee; "New import/export meter installation: usually around $210 (incl. GST)". [primary] https://help.frankenergy.co.nz/en/articles/7881587-what-is-a-buy-back-rate
EECA: the installer usually lodges the DG application; for <10 kW "it generally takes 1 to 2 weeks for your network operator to approve"; the meter must be reconfigured before export is enabled. [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/solar-quotes-and-installation/

3. Buy-back (export) rates, 2026

Rates move often; the retailer page is the source of truth. All are c/kWh. GST basis noted where the retailer states it.

Retailer	Rate(s)	Conditions	Source
Meridian	Open-term plans (Freedom, Night Saver): 15c standard; 24c winter peak (July to September, 7 to 10 am and 5 to 9 pm) paid as a separate 9c credit by the 10th business day of the following month. Fixed-term Bach/EV plans: 12c. Rates exclude GST.	Communicating smart meter needed for peak rate; variable rate.	[primary] https://www.meridianenergy.co.nz/for-home/pricing-rates/solar
Powershop (Meridian brand)	13c year-round, no export cap; 23c winter peak weekdays 7 to 11 am and 5 to 9 pm, July to September. GST basis not stated.	Communicating smart meter for peak; $150 sign-up credit.	[primary] https://www.powershop.co.nz/solar
Flick	Brand discontinued after Meridian's purchase (transaction completed July 2025; $70m, ~41,000 customers). Customers moved to Meridian plans.		[primary] https://www.meridianenergy.co.nz/help/flick-faq ; [secondary] https://www.consumer.org.nz/home-and-living/home-energy/flick-electric-sale-to-meridian-what-to-do-if-you-re-a-customer
Contact	Publishes no export rate on its solar page; "Good Charge" plan pays "a higher buy back rate during peak usage times (between 7-9am and 6-10pm weekdays)". Rate figures reported by comparison sites (8c standard) are UNVERIFIED against a Contact page.	Prices by address.	[primary] https://contact.co.nz/personal/electricity/solar ; [secondary] https://solarscout.co.nz/solar-guides/buy-back-rates-nz/
Genesis	"12.5c/kWh (excluding GST) for home and business connections".	Flat rate.	[primary] https://www.genesisenergy.co.nz/help/faqs/what-is-the-buyback-rate
Frank (Genesis brand)	"We credit 12.5 cents per kWh for every eligible exported kWh. This credit is shown before GST."	Systems ≤50 kW; net export only; export-capable meter.	[primary] https://help.frankenergy.co.nz/en/articles/7881587-what-is-a-buy-back-rate
Mercury	Flat Rates plan 11.1c. Flex Rates plan: winter (1 May to 30 Sep) peak 20.38c (7 to 11 am, 5 to 9:30 pm), off-peak 15.75c; summer peak 10.44c, off-peak 9.17c. Rates exclude GST; differ on some networks (e.g. Orion). +6.9c for 2 years with a Harrisons Solar install.		[primary] https://www.mercury.co.nz/solar
Octopus	OctopusFlexi (≤10 kW): 19c peak / 14c other times (Northpower and Top Energy: 17c/12c). OctopusPeaker (≤20 kW, battery households): 23c peak / 10c other (Northpower/Top Energy 21c/8c). Peak = weekdays 7 to 11 am and 5 to 9 pm. GST basis not stated. Credit balances paid out to a bank account at most once a year after 12 months as a customer.		[primary] https://octopusenergy.nz/solar-and-battery ; https://octopusenergy.nz/octopuspeaker
Ecotricity	ecoSOLAR: "peak buyback rate of 21c/kWh", off-peak export 16c; import 18c low user / 17c standard; no fixed contract. GST basis and peak window not stated on the page.		[primary] https://ecotricity.co.nz/solar
Electric Kiwi	MoveMaster: "23c/kWh solar buy back rate and 11.5c/kWh off-peak (incl GST)"; off-peak window 11 pm to 7 am. Comparison sites quote different figures (8c to 20c) so UNVERIFIED which figure applies to which plan; ask for it in writing.		[primary] https://www.electrickiwi.co.nz/solar

Regulatory changes affecting export pricing: - From 01/04/2026 distributors must pay rebates (negative charges) to households and small businesses (connection ≤45 kVA, export ≤45 kW) injecting at peak times, under an amendment to clause 12A.7 of the Code (Energy Competition Task Force 2A). [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/code-and-compliance/code-amendments/injection-payment-requirements-amendment/ ; https://www.ea.govt.nz/news/general-news/decision-paper-on-small-business-eligibility-for-export-rebates-released/ - From 01/07/2026 retailers with ≥5% market share must offer at least one time-of-use consumption plan and "at least one 'time-varying' rate for power they buy from people with solar and battery systems"; no minimum export rate is set. [primary] https://www.ea.govt.nz/projects/all/energy-competition-task-force/consultation/new-ways-to-power-electricity-consumers/ - Consumer NZ Powerswitch keeps a retailer buy-back table (rates "excluding GST", updated June 2026) but notes "Solar rates are not included in the Powerswitch estimates". The table itself is rendered client-side and was not readable here. [primary page] https://www.powerswitch.org.nz/solar-rates - UNVERIFIED / conflicting secondary data: Solar Scout (updated 12/07/2026) and Selectra (11/05/2026) publish tables that disagree with each other and with several retailer pages (e.g. Selectra lists Mercury 5c and Electric Kiwi 8c; Solar Scout lists Octopus 40c winter Peaker). Do not republish those numbers without checking the retailer page on the day. https://solarscout.co.nz/solar-guides/buy-back-rates-nz/ ; https://selectra.nz/energy/electricity-prices/best-power-company-for-solar-buy-back

4. Sizing inputs

4.1 Household consumption

EECA: NZ average "about 7,000 kWh per year ($2,400 annually)"; worked examples small home 5,500 kWh, medium 8,000 kWh, large 12,000 kWh. [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/plan-your-solar-system/
BRANZ Level: "New Zealand households use an average of 20 kWh of electricity per day". [primary] https://www.level.org.nz/energy/renewable-electricity-generation/photovoltaic-pv-systems/
Electricity Authority EMI publishes "Residential consumption trends" (kWh per ICP by region) for regional numbers; the interactive report defaults to old data so pull the CSV for the latest year. [primary] https://www.emi.ea.govt.nz/Retail/Reports/0YUCE0 UNVERIFIED current-year value (a snippet cites MBIE ~7,100 kWh/yr and EA regional range West Coast 5,870 to Canterbury 8,550 kWh; secondary: https://www.powercompare.co.nz/n/guide-kiwi-home-electricity-consumption)

4.2 Solar yield per kW by region

No official NZ table of kWh per kWp by city was found. NIWA SolarView gives per-address estimates from 10+ years of climate-station irradiance but publishes no city summary. [primary] https://niwa.co.nz/climate-and-weather/solarview
Regional irradiance pattern (peer-reviewed): higher clear-sky fraction in "Nelson, Blenheim, Manawatu, Bay of Plenty, and Hawke's Bay" corresponds with higher GHI (Solar Atlas of NZ, 2007 to 2018 satellite data). [primary] https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03036758.2020.1763409
EECA regional savings for a 5 kW system range from $1,047/yr (Southland) to $1,467/yr (Marlborough), calculations "December 2025". [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/solar-costs-and-savings/
Secondary per-city yields (PVGIS-ERA5 2005 to 2023, optimal tilt, 3% losses; Solar Scout, updated 10/08/2026): Wellington 1,431; New Plymouth 1,420; Blenheim 1,407; Auckland 1,391; Whangārei 1,391; Tauranga 1,388; Napier/Hastings 1,369; Nelson 1,361; Christchurch 1,340; Rotorua 1,296; Hamilton 1,290; Palmerston North 1,284; Dunedin 1,226; Queenstown 1,208; Invercargill 1,137 kWh/kWp/yr. These are modelled at optimal tilt and will overstate a typical fixed roof; treat as UNVERIFIED and label the source if used. https://solarscout.co.nz/solar-guides/solar-output-by-region-nz/
Design rules of thumb (BRANZ Level): orient north; grid-tied tilt = latitude minus 10°; off-grid tilt = latitude plus 10°; roughly 5 to 17 m² per kWp depending on panel type. [primary] https://www.level.org.nz/energy/renewable-electricity-generation/photovoltaic-pv-systems/

4.3 System sizes, panel wattage, cost

Average size of new residential installs (BRANZ Level): ~3.4 to 3.5 kW for years, 4.5 kW from 2018, ~5 kW in 2021, "around 6 kW" in 2024. [primary] https://www.level.org.nz/energy/renewable-electricity-generation/photovoltaic-pv-systems/
EA EMI "Installed distributed generation trends" tracks the size of new installations; a snippet of that report gives an average new residential system of 7.9 kW in January 2026 and 855 MW total distributed solar. [primary report] https://www.emi.ea.govt.nz/Retail/Reports/GUEHMT UNVERIFIED figures (report needs CSV download).
EECA sizing examples: small 7 panels 3.5 kW with 3 kW inverter; medium 12 panels 5.5 kW with 5 kW inverter; large 24 panels 10 kW with 9 kW inverter; typical panel "400 watts", 1.6 to 2 m² each; 35 m² of roof allows up to 5 kW, 70 m² up to 10 kW, under 20 m² too small for 3 kW; panels last 25 to 30 years losing ~0.5%/yr; inverter replacement in 10 to 15 years. [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/plan-your-solar-system/
EECA indicative installed prices (Dec 2025): 3 kW $8,500; 5 kW $11,500; 10 kW $20,000; battery add $5,000 to $15,000 (3 kW + 5 kWh $13,500; 5 kW + 10 kWh $21,500; 10 kW + 20 kWh $40,000); payback 7 to 10 years; a 5 kW system covers "around 50 to 80% of the electricity used by an average 3-person household with all electric appliances, but no EVs". [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/solar-costs-and-savings/
EECA June 2025 study modelled 5 kW-ac (north, 30° tilt) and 10 kW-ac + 10 kWh; IRR without battery ~7 to 14% Queenstown, 6 to 12% Auckland, 6 to 11% Christchurch, lower in Wellington; batteries "boost IRR by 1-2%". [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/insights/eeca-insights/understanding-the-value-of-residential-solar-pv-and-storage-in-new-zealand/
Secondary 2026 market pricing (My Solar Quotes, table dated 28/04/2026): 3 kW ~$7,000, 6 kW ~$12,000, 10 kW ~$19,000 incl GST; ~$2.04/W average (range $1.74 to $2.36/W); batteries 5 kWh $6,000 to $7,500, 10 kWh $10,000 to $13,000, 13.5 kWh ~$13,000; panels commonly ~500 W. UNVERIFIED (market survey, not official). https://www.mysolarquotes.co.nz/about-solar-power/residential/how-much-does-a-solar-power-system-cost/
Secondary: 6.6 kW "$14,000 to $15,000" installed and 6.6 kW the most popular size (Solar Scout). UNVERIFIED. https://solarscout.co.nz/solar-guides/solar-panel-costs-nz/

5. Consumer law and warranty gotchas (for a price-comparison publisher)

5.1 Fair Trading Act 1986 (FTA)

Comparative advertising / comparisons: "The comparisons you make must be accurate, should clearly indicate what comparison is being made, and must be about 'like' products or services available in the same market"; price comparisons must be based on actual market prices, and a comparison "based on a price that was only regularly charged for a short period ... may be misleading". Statements like "the most economical" "will breach the Fair Trading Act if they are not accurate". [primary] https://www.comcom.govt.nz/fair-trading/fair-trading-act-fact-sheets/comparative-advertising/
Unsubstantiated representations (FTA s 12A): you must have "reasonable grounds for the representation" when it is made; substantiating afterwards "may not get you off the hook"; puffery excluded. [primary] https://www.comcom.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/89850/Unsubstantiated-representations-Fact-sheet-July-2018.pdf ; https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0121/latest/dlm6156605.html
False or misleading representations (FTA s 13) covers price, quality, standard, warranties and guarantees. [primary] https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0121/latest/DLM96908.html
Fine print cannot cure a misleading overall impression. [primary] https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/common-consumer-issues/misleading-prices-or-advertising
UNVERIFIED: no Commerce Commission guidance specific to comparison websites, affiliate/commission disclosure, or solar was found. Practical implication for a comparison page: date-stamp every price, cite the source page, disclose commercial relationships, and avoid superlatives you cannot substantiate.

5.2 Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (CGA)

Goods must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose, match description and last a reasonable time; the CGA applies "regardless of any store guarantees or warranties"; a business that tries to contract out "commits an offence under the Fair Trading Act"; the CGA can be excluded in writing only for goods bought for business use. [primary] https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/consumer-laws/consumer-guarantees-act
Relevance to a builder guide: a manufacturer's 10 or 25-year warranty is in addition to CGA rights against the NZ seller/installer; a DIY buyer importing gear directly has no NZ trader to claim against. UNVERIFIED (interpretive) but follows from the CGA applying to NZ traders.

5.3 Warranty norms and gotchas

EECA baseline warranties to expect: "10 years for the product warranty on panels. Some will also include a performance warranty"; "5 years for string inverters", "10 years for microinverters", "10 years for batteries (lithium-ion)", "5 years for workmanship". Get 2 to 3 quotes, an on-site assessment, and warranty terms in writing. [primary] https://www.eeca.govt.nz/for-homes/solar-for-homes/solar-quotes-and-installation/
SEANZ Code of Conduct requires members to comply with the FTA, CGA, Building Act, Construction Contracts Act etc. and to "honour guarantees and warranties provided by Members or Members' suppliers". [primary] https://www.seanz.org.nz/conduct
Product warranty vs performance warranty: performance warranties promise a percentage of rated output over 25+ years; product warranties cover defects and were "until recently ... 10 years" with many makers now offering 25 years. [secondary] https://www.mysolarquotes.co.nz/blog/solar-power-news-in-new-zealand/solar-panel-manufacturers-stepping-up-with-25-year-product-warranties/
Inverter warranties typically 10 to 15 years, workmanship 5 (good installers 10). [secondary] https://thinksolar.co.nz/knowledge-hub-posts/solar-warranties-101/
Installer-registered / installer-dependent warranties: UNVERIFIED for specific brands. Several manufacturers condition extended warranties on installation by an accredited installer or online product registration; no NZ regulator guidance on this was found. Flag it in the guide as "read the warranty document; check whether DIY or unaccredited installation voids it".
Consumer NZ recommendation via secondary source: choose a system with a minimum power-production guarantee of at least 20 years. UNVERIFIED (Consumer NZ page not read). https://thinksolar.co.nz/knowledge-hub-posts/solar-warranties-101/

6. Open items / could not verify

Exact wording of MBIE's technical guidance 14.3/14.4 (600 mm setback, roofline) and the ground-mount notes 14.1/14.2: building.govt.nz blocks automated reads.
Contact Energy's actual export rates (address-based; not published on the solar page).
Electric Kiwi's export rate structure (retailer page says 23c on MoveMaster; comparison sites disagree).
Current-year EMI figures for average residential consumption and average new system size (need CSV export).
Per-city yields from an official NZ source; only PVGIS-based secondary tables exist.
Orion's exact application fee (a $92 incl GST figure surfaced in search results but was not read on Orion's fee schedule) and Vector's fee (none stated on its page).
Whether any council publishes a solar-specific permitted-activity rule; heritage/character overlays are the trigger to check.
Any Commerce Commission guidance targeted at comparison sites or solar retailing.