Energy Monitoring
Real-Time Energy Insights
Our energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights into energy production and usage, helping you make data-driven decisions for maximum efficiency. With advanced analytics, you can optimise consumption, reduce grid reliance, and enhance savings. These tools ensure your solar investment delivers the greatest value by turning data into impactful energy management.
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The Grid
Smart Grid Integration
A grid-tied system powers your home and allows you to benefit from grid connectivity. When your solar production exceeds household needs, excess energy can be returned to the grid, earning credits on your bill. This seamless connection enhances flexibility, ensuring reliable power when solar output is low and adding financial benefits over time.
How grid-tied solar systems work
How Grid-Tied Solar Powers Your Home
A grid-tied solar power system efficiently converts sunlight into electricity, integrating seamlessly with the utility grid. Let’s explore each essential component that makes clean energy a reliable power source.
SOLAR PANELS
Maximising Solar Capture
Solar panels form the foundation of your grid-tied system, converting sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. Our premium panels deliver high energy conversion rates and long-lasting durability, maximising every ray of sunlight to ensure reliable, efficient energy for your home. This effective capture drives both immediate savings and long-term value
Solar Inverter
Seamless Power Conversion
The inverter transforms DC power from the panels into alternating current (AC) for household use. ZEN’s high-efficiency inverters adapt to changing energy needs, delivering consistent and reliable conversion that keeps your system operating at peak performance. This precise conversion supports overall efficiency, contributing directly to your energy savings.
Why choose a grid-tied solar system
EFFICIENT, RELIABLE ENERGY FOR YOUR HOME
A grid-tied solar power system is a practical solution for reducing electricity costs and benefitting from export credits on utility bills. Designed for homes with consistent grid service, it offers substantial savings and environmental benefits.
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Advantages
Lower installation cost
Less expensive than hybrid and off-grid systems.
Eligibility for export credits
Sell excess electricity back to the grid, reducing energy bills further.
Reduced carbon footprint
Use clean solar energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Considerations
Dependence on grid availability
Relies on the grid for operation and won’t produce power during outages.
No power during outages
Without battery backup, it cannot supply electricity when the grid is down.
Grid-tied solar vs. other systems
Understanding Your Solar Options
This table provides a clear comparison of grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid systems, helping you evaluate the key differences and make an informed decision for your energy needs.
Considerations
Grid-tied solar system
Hybrid battery solar system
Off-grid solar system
Initial cost (incl. GST)
From $11,500
From $24,500
From $38,700
Dependence on grid
Full
Partial
None
Backup during outages
No
Yes
Yes
Electricity bills
Average 60% savings + Export Credits
Average 80% savings + Export Credits
None
Ideal for
Urban / suburban areas, lower initial investment
Unreliable grid areas, those seeking backup
Remote locations, full independence
Maintenance
Low
Medium (battery care)
Medium (battery care)
Scalability
High
High
Limited
Environmental impact
Low
Lower
Lowest
Payback period
5-8 Years
7-10 Years
NA
Grid-tied solar system pricing
TAILORED SOLAR SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR ENERGY NEEDS
Our grid-tied solar systems offer tailored solutions to support your energy efficiency goals. Starting prices accommodate a variety of energy demands, making sustainable living more accessible.
Low power usage
Small system*
- Monthly Bill: $150 to $250
- Annual Consumption (kWh): 7,000 to 9,000
- Household Size: Up to 4 people
- Appliances: Standard use
Medium power usage
Mid-sized system*
- Monthly Bill: $250 to $350
- Annual Consumption (kWh): 9,000 to 12,000
- Household Size: 4-5 people
- Appliances: Medium use (e.g spa, EV)
High power usage
Large system*
- Monthly Bill: $350+
- Annual Consumption (kWh): 12,000+
- Household Size: 5+ people
- Appliances: Heavy use (e.g spa, EV, pool, central and/or underfloor heating)
Find out what AFFECTS the cost of your Grid-Tied system
Energy needs
System size typically scales with consumption levels, directly affecting cost.
Components quality
High-grade panels, inverters, and batteries impact cost and long-term reliability.
Install complexity
Cost is influenced by roofing, site specifics, wiring needs, and scaffolding.
Energy goals
Grid independence or substantial energy savings goals necessitate a larger system.
Custom solutions
Personalised energy systems for unique requirements (e.g. smart homes) alter the financial outlay.
Tech upgrades
Smart tech and EV charging integration increase both efficiency and initial cost.
Grid-tied solar savings case study
LOWER BILLS AND A GREENER FOOTPRINT
With a $11,932 investment, these homeowners installed a 5.28kW grid-tied solar system with 12 LONGi 440W panels and a RedBack SI5000 5.0kW inverter, targeting a 60% self-consumption rate. Their average monthly bill dropped from $242 to $86.22—a 64.37% savings.
Over 25 years, projected savings reach $63,930.21, considering rising electricity rates and income from selling excess power back to the grid. This system also equals the CO₂ absorption of 40 trees and powers 528 light bulbs continuously, reducing their environmental impact.
Monthly Bill Savings
$250
$200
$150
$100
$50
0
($242)
($86)
Cumulative Savings
$80,000
$60,000
$40,000
$20,000
0
Real-life solar success journey:
Energy cost savings & environmental benefits
$63,930.21
Total savings
Total savings: $63,930.21 in combined savings and export credits amassed over 25 years, netting $51,992.21 after recouping the initial $11,932 investment.
6.01 Years
Payback period
Payback period: The solar system's initial investment is recouped in only 6.01 years.
16.65%
Annualised ROI
Annualised ROI: An impressive 16.65% annual return on the solar energy system investment.
40
Trees' carbon work
Tree's carbon work: Equivalent to the environmental impact of 40 trees absorbing CO2 every year.
528
Light bulbs powered
Light bulbs powered: Lighting up 528 bulbs non-stop for 25 years, all through clean, solar energy.
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The ZEN solar difference
Discover the advantages:
7 key reasons to choose ZEN Energy
1. NZ-Owned and Operated Since 2014
Serving Kiwis for over a decade, we’re a proud New Zealand-owned business with local expertise you can count on.
2. Proven Track Record Across NZ
With 1,000+ installations nationwide, we’ve delivered reliable solar solutions for homes, businesses, and large-scale projects alike.
3. Unmatched Expertise in Solar Design
Our team combines over 50 years of solar engineering and technical expertise, ensuring each system is designed to maximise performance.
4. Custom Solutions for Unique Energy Needs
We design every solar solution to align with your specific energy goals and property requirements, from off-grid homes to commercial projects.
5. Premium Technology, Award-Winning Brands
Using world-class products like LONGi, GoodWe, and Pylontech, our systems are built for performance and durability, backed by global awards, accolades and financial stability.
6. Thorough Technical Review on Every Install
Each installation undergoes a rigorous technical review, ensuring that every detail is optimised for maximum safety and efficiency.
7. Lifetime Support for Your Solar Investment
Our support doesn’t end after installation. We’re here to help you maximise your system’s value and performance for years to come.
Ready to soak up the
benefits of solar energy
with ZEN
Ready For
Your Power
to Change Hands?
Start your switch to solar today. Get in touch and we can support your journey to energy savings, sustainability and self-sufficiency.
No strings attached.