Your photovoltaic solar panels absorb rays from the sun to turn into electricity and direct it to an inverter which converts it to the type of electricity that powers your home. You’ll use your own solar first to power your home, with any surplus power able to be sold back to the grid for credit. If you choose to install a battery as part of your system you can store the unused energy to use when the sun goes down or if there is a power cut. Solar still produces energy on cloudy days, just at reduced output.

For most Kiwi homes, a quality 3–5 kW grid‑tied system is typically $8,500–$11,500 installed (incl. GST). Choosing a home battery is optional and usually adds $5,000–$15,000 depending on size; a larger 10 kW system is around $20,000. Have a chat to your local Laser Electrical about what you’d like to achieve with your solar project.

Yes. Solar is classed as high‑risk electrical work and must be certified by your electrician and separately inspected before switch‑on. This ensures the system meets New Zealand electrical standards and is safe, compliant, and ready to operate. Your Laser Electrician will ensure your project has the certifications required.

Most homes are physically installed in about one day; complex roofs or weather may add time. Your local Laser Electrical will let you know the expected timeframe for your project.

Local market analysis shows homes with solar achieved an average ~1.34% sale premium — around $12,000 on a typical NZ home — indicating buyers value rooftop solar.

Yes, for grid‑connected systems you’ll need an import/export‑capable meter so your retailer can bill what you use and credit what you export accurately.

A battery isn’t required. Many households get strong savings from solar‑only systems. Batteries add backup during outages and help you use more of your own solar at night; whether they’re worth it depends on your usage pattern and goals. Your local Laser Electrical can talk you through and recommend if a battery is right for your solar needs.

Solar is low‑maintenance. Keep panels reasonably clean and free of debris, check your monitoring app from time to time, and arrange your local Laser Electrical to come in professional check every few years — especially if you notice performance changes.