Solar can meet most of your daytime energy needs if appropriately sized and installed to maximise sun exposure. This can be further enhanced with the addition of a battery. We are also exceptionally experienced with Off-Grid Solar Solutions, where a backup generator often further supports solar and batteries. There is a reason NASA powers its satellites using solar power: solar power is abundant, reliable, and cost-effective.

Your solar panels don’t need sunshine, per se, to generate electricity as much as they need direct, unobstructed access to the sun’s UV rays. Like how your skin still tans when it’s overcast outside, your solar panels will still generate electricity during cloudy, rainy or snowy days – they won’t produce as much energy as they do during clear days. Solar panels do not generate electricity at night since the sun isn’t out. This is when staying on the grid comes in handy. Or you can add a battery and generator to go off grid.

Read about the effects of shading on solar panels over on our blog. AA Solar can simulate the effects of shading and provide the most suitable system configuration for your next project. Call us on 09 886 5266 if you’d like to discuss a project.

DIY is not recommended.  NZ law requires licensed electricians for solar installations to ensure the safety of homeowners and the grid.  You also likely need a Code of Compliance to support warranty claims, insurances and when selling your home.

Yes.  Modern solar panels are built to withstand New Zealand's weather and need minimal maintenance, usually just periodic cleaning.  AA Solar supplies panels from trusted brands that we have extensively tested and have outstanding warranties, so you wil enjoy reliable performance for years to come.

Qualified installers assess your roof, choose the best north-facing position, and securely mount panels using brackets and rails.  Panels are then wired to an inverter and your switchboard.  For most homes, installers follow the roof's pitch; flat roofs may need angled frames for best output.  Professional installation ensures safety, compliance, and long-lasting performance.

For the average NZ home $8,000-$14,000 for a fully installed grid-tied system.  Cost vary by roof type, and system size.  The price of residential  batteries has decreased in recent years so it is worth enquiring to find out if adding a battery would lift your energy savings. 

Key parts are: solar panels, mounting hardware, inverter, wiring, and a switchboard connection.  Optional add-ons include batteries and monitoring software.

An off-grid system is completely independent, powering your home with solar and batteries (often with a backup generator).  It is not connected to the NZ electrical grid at all.  Our off-grid customers enjoy zero power bills year round and is ideal for remote or rural sites without affordable access to the grid.

Panels generate power, which is stored in batteries for use day and night.  The system includes an off-grid inverter and charge controllers for safety/reliablity.  We tend to design our off-grid systems with 4 days autonomy (for when the sun does not shine), and recomend the inclusion of a generator for year round added protection.

Panels convert sunlight to direct current (DC) electricity, which an inverter turns into AC power for home use.  Excess can be sold to the grid, used to charge and electric vehicle, and stored in batteries.