How much can you save with solar?

There are as many answers to “why choose solar?” as there are solar users in New Zealand. Some people want to reduce the impact on their local environment, others want to ensure they have a reliable power source should the main power grid fail.

But for most, it’s all about the potential to save money. People want a power source they can depend on to cut their costs - and maybe even earn some profit from solar buyback along the way.

How much will I save with solar?

How much you can save with solar depends on a number of factors.

• The size of the solar system
• How much power your household uses
• The efficiency of your solar system
• Whether you have solar batteries or not
• How much sunshine your solar panels receive

If you have a large, highly efficient battery-integrated solar system in a sunny part of New Zealand with low power consumption, you may even be able to cut your costs entirely, relying completely on solar power!

For the average solar power user, however, a typical solar power system can save you between 50% to 90% of your power bill, depending on your system.

It’s also important to remember that it isn’t always just about how much you ‘save’ with solar power. Due to solar buyback programmes with local utility companies, you may even be able to sell your excess power back to the grid for a profit!

How much does solar power cost?

While solar power immediately starts saving you money as soon as it is installed, it does have some up front costs.

Solar power systems vary in cost depending on:

• The number of panels
• The size and number of batteries
• The complexity of the existing electrical grid
• The level of technology in the solar system.

Generally, there are three types of solar power system, in increasing complexity and value:

1. Grid-tied, which retains a connection to the power grid and supplements your existing power system.
2. Hybrid, which can have batteries installed straight away or at a later stage to ensure the power flows even when the sun doesn’t shine.
3. Off-grid, which is a complete power system that replaces your grid connection entirely.

The larger and more complex the system, the higher the cost, but also the higher the savings once installed. 

Solar power has been rapidly increasing in efficiency and popularity while also dropping in cost over the last few years. It’s now cheaper than ever to invest in solar and start saving.

How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels are highly durable. The solar panels from ZEN Energy have a lifetime warranty of 25 years, meaning that they can sometimes even outlast the roof that they’re installed on. They are very low maintenance, only requiring a clean with a hose every so often, meaning that ongoing costs for solar panels are practically nil.

How can I save more with solar?

It isn’t enough just to ‘have solar’. You have to have the right system for your needs if you want to make the most of it. Bigger isn’t always better, and a shoddy installation of an inappropriate solar system for your needs may cost more than you ever save.

If you’re interested in investing in solar and to save on your utility bills, get in touch with an expert from ZEN Energy today to find out your options.