Rising energy costs are driving people to consider solar

Rising energy costs are driving people to consider solar
Survey says 13% plan to install solar in near future. (Image: NZME)
Ian Llewellyn
Almost half of households are considering installing solar due to rising electricity costs, but the upfront costs and long payback time are moderating enthusiasm.A Westpac NZ commissioned survey of 564 people found nearly half of New Zealanders have either installed solar panels or are considering doing so.A survey by research agency FiftyFive5, which had a 5% margin of error at a 95% confidence level, found that 9% already have panels, 13% plan to install them within the next year, and another 25% intend to at some point.While the survey sugge...

More Energy

Spot market power prices 'past their peak': Genesis
Markets

Spot market power prices 'past their peak': Genesis

Genesis has 1.1 million tonnes of coal stockpiled for use at the Huntly Power Station.

Pattrick Smellie 17 Oct 2025
Solar-powered hospitals possible
Health

Solar-powered hospitals possible

Sunlight may be more than disinfectant.

Ian Llewellyn 16 Oct 2025
New rules with legal teeth proposed for gentailers
Markets

New rules with legal teeth proposed for gentailers

Non-discrimination rules proposed for gentailers.

Ian Llewellyn 15 Oct 2025
Power bills confusing and difficult to compare
Law & Regulation

Power bills confusing and difficult to compare

A voluntary code has not done enough to change poor billing by retailers.

Ian Llewellyn 13 Oct 2025