Why Solar?

Why consider solar while you’re building?

Mike Worsp, solarZero Business Development Manager, is working closely with Rangitahi developers to ensure solar installations not only look good but work safely and efficiently on new builds. He and his team of solar engineering experts are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to designing the right solar system for your home. Strong caveats and the highest specifications apply to all Rangitahi buildings and landscaping to elevate the quality and value of the entire peninsula.

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‍Mike’s main piece of advice for home builders in the Rangitahi community?

‍Pre-wire your home to hide the conduit and ensure everything is seamlessly installed. So it’s ready to generate and store solar energy from the day you move in.
With H1 changes, it makes sense to pay particular attention to the energy performance ratings of new buildings. Although it’s possible to retrofit solar panels on an existing home, pre-wiring to make sure it’s all neatly hidden behind walls – while your electrician’s already on site – is even smarter.Solar panels must also be correctly arrayed and secured to prevent them from lifting or flying off the roof during strong winds. Specialist solar engineers will ensure your home is safely and correctly pre-wired for solar panels – minimising any risk of sudden power failures or electrocution. As associate members of the roofing association, solarZero understands the importance of designing and fitting solar panels correctly to protect the integrity of your roof, maximise energy efficiency and minimise visual interruption.

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‍Why choose solar energy for your new home?

‍Solar is a clean, cost-effective way to power your home today and tomorrow – here are three key benefits to look forward to.

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‍1. Save money Installing solar is an investment in future-proofing your new home against rising costs. With the prices of fuel and main grid electricity constantly going up, the financial benefits of switching to solar. For example: combining solar with an EV could save you up to 70% on your household bills.

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‍2. Build self-sufficiency It’s a great feeling to know solar has your back, even during natural disasters. In early 2023, many kiwi households experienced blackouts due to flooding and Cyclone Gabrielle. But solarZero members stayed connected – and were able to keep key lights, appliances, and sockets on at home for up to a week – as solar panels and smart batteries kept generating and storing energy.

3. Play your part According to the IEA, buildings and construction were responsible for 39% of the world’s energy and process-related CO2 emissions in 2018.* Kiwi homeowners who are future-proofing their homes by installing solar are  helping to reduce our total carbon emissions through powering their homes with 100% renewable energy. This will make Aotearoa New Zealand, greener, more circular and more self-reliant.

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‍Why choose solarZero for your new build?

‍Alongside the overarching benefits of powering your home with solar energy, solarZero offers other key advantages for homeowners. For example, there are no upfront costs – because building a home is expensive enough. As a member, you pay one predictable, low fee that won’t go up, plus a small top-up-from-the-grid bill from Ecotricity at price-protected rates, depending on your power use for that month. The agreement even includes replacing the smart battery at around year 10.

“Solar is a huge growth industry and a way homeowners can contribute to reducing New Zealand’s carbon emissions and build self-sufficiency into their homes from day one. SolarZero is looking to partner with MasterElectricians to highlight best practices in wiring for solar – to ensure installing and using solar on new builds is as seamless and efficient as possible.” - Master Electricians CEO Bernie McLaughlinAre you considering going solar for your new home?If solar is on your mind for your new build, it’s never too early to talk to New Zealand’s experts.When you have your building consent, solarZero can provide professionally designed pre-wiring plans and guide you through the process.

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