The Complete Guide to Commercial Solar for NZ Businesses

1. Introduction

Electricity costs in New Zealand have long been a significant overhead for many businesses - but today, they’re harder to manage than ever.

Whether it’s manufacturing in Waikato or logistics in South Auckland, businesses across the country are grappling with rising tariffs, unpredictable wholesale prices, and mounting network charges. Seasonal demand adds further strain, particularly for large commercial sites with high daytime loads or continuous operations.

At the same time, expectations around sustainability are shifting. Customers, investors, and regulatory frameworks are increasingly focused on how businesses source their energy and report their environmental impact, making solar energy solutions an essential part of a modern business strategy.

It’s no surprise, then, that many New Zealand businesses are actively rethinking their energy strategy. And solar energy is no longer just a “green” initiative - it’s a commercial decision grounded in efficiency, resilience, and long-term value.

Today’s commercial solar systems are more efficient, more flexible, and more accessible than ever. They allow businesses to reduce their reliance on the grid, stabilise energy costs, and take tangible steps toward meeting carbon goals. For some, it’s about managing operational risk. For others, it’s about future-proofing energy supply or meeting compliance requirements. For many, it’s all of the above.

But what does commercial solar actually involve? What kinds of businesses benefit most? What if you lease your building - or don’t use all the energy you generate? And what kind of return can you realistically expect?

That’s where this guide comes in.

We’ve created it specifically for New Zealand business owners, CFOs, sustainability officers, and property decision-makers who want a clear, plain-English understanding of commercial solar. You’ll find insights on how the systems work, what they cost, how they’re financed, and how to assess whether solar is a good fit for your site.

This guide offers practical insights into commercial solar - from costs and ROI to system design and suitability - to help you assess what’s possible for your business.

Let’s begin.

2. What is commercial solar?

Commercial solar refers to a solar power system designed specifically for business or industrial use. These systems are engineered to meet the energy demands of commercial buildings - including warehouses, factories, schools, farms, offices, and other non-residential sites.

While the core technology is the same as residential solar - solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity - commercial systems are larger, more complex, and built for very different use cases.

They’re not just about powering lights or reducing household bills. They’re about offsetting operational energy loads, stabilising energy costs, and delivering long-term value across a wide range of sectors.

How commercial solar differs from residential systems

Most residential systems in New Zealand range from 3kW to 10kW - enough to cover household appliances, lighting, and occasional heating or cooling loads. Commercial systems, by contrast, often start at 15kW and scale up to 250kW or more, depending on the size and needs of the business.

But the differences aren’t just in size.

Commercial systems require a more customised design process. Business energy use tends to be:

• Higher overall, especially during working hours
• Variable, depending on operations, equipment, refrigeration, and lighting loads
• More sensitive to pricing volatility and demand charges

As a result, system design focuses on aligning solar generation with when and how the business consumes energy - maximising self-consumption and return on investment.

There are also more moving parts. Key commercial considerations include:

• Roof structure, tilt, and available surface area
• Switchboard capacity and on-site electrical layout
• Structural and electrical engineering sign-off
• Health and safety planning for on-site installation
• Network approvals from local lines companies (each with their own processes)
• Integration with diesel backup, EV charging, or building management systems

Getting these elements right takes more than just solar panels. It takes a partner with deep technical knowledge and proven experience delivering commercial outcomes - not just installs.

Who is commercial solar for?

Commercial solar is a fit for a wide range of organisations across New Zealand - from small businesses with high daytime energy use to large-scale industrial operations.

It’s particularly well-suited to:

• Owner-occupied sites with high operational loads (e.g. manufacturing, warehousing, cool storage)
• Landlords looking to boost asset value, improve sustainability ratings, or attract ESG-conscious tenants
• Tenants seeking to reduce power bills under a shared solar or energy supply model
• Regional businesses facing high network or transmission charges
• Enterprises with ESG targets or reporting obligations under carbon frameworks

From horticulture in Hawke’s Bay to logistics in South Auckland and processing in Canterbury, commercial solar is already delivering real results for New Zealand businesses. These systems are built to match the demands of each site - scalable, efficient, and designed with operational realities in mind.

3. The business case for solar in New Zealand

Switching to solar is no longer just about sustainability - it’s about smart business. Across New Zealand, organisations are investing in solar to reduce their exposure to rising energy prices, take control of long-term operational costs, and meet growing expectations around environmental performance and transparency.

For many, the shift to commercial solar isn’t just practical - it’s strategic.

Rising energy prices

Electricity prices in New Zealand have been steadily climbing over the past decade - with commercial users often bearing the brunt. Businesses face rising wholesale market rates, increasing lines company charges, and seasonal pricing spikes that are difficult to forecast or control.

The national grid operator, Transpower, has also flagged the need for significant infrastructure upgrades - costs that are likely to be passed down to consumers in the years ahead.

For energy-intensive operations, this creates real cost volatility. Even smaller commercial users are feeling the strain, with energy bills becoming a more significant percentage of monthly overheads.

Commercial solar helps businesses sidestep part of this volatility by generating electricity on-site - reducing reliance on grid power and shielding against future price increases.

Cost savings and long-term ROI

At its core, commercial solar is an effective tool for reducing operating costs.

By generating electricity from your own building or land, you reduce the volume you need to buy from the grid - and when retail power rates are $0.25–$0.35/kWh or more in many areas, those savings can be substantial.

Typical payback periods in New Zealand range from 4 to 7 years, depending on the system size, energy usage profile, location, and export arrangements. After that, most systems continue generating cost savings for 15–20+ years.

Solar also delivers a more predictable energy cost over time. That’s increasingly valuable for businesses looking to improve budget forecasting and reduce exposure to external risk.

Combined with financing models that remove the need for upfront capital, solar is now viewed by many CFOs not as a one-off project, but as a strategic energy asset.

Energy independence and future cost control

Solar gives businesses more control over their energy - not by disconnecting from the grid, but by reducing reliance on it.

By offsetting a large portion of daytime electricity use with on-site solar, you effectively lock in part of your energy cost for the life of the system. That means less exposure to peak tariffs, fewer surprises when the next energy contract rolls around, and improved long-term cost predictability.

For organisations operating multiple sites - or working in sectors where uptime is critical - solar can also be integrated with battery storage to improve energy resilience. This supports:

• Critical refrigeration or processing loads
• Data centres or ICT infrastructure
• Medical and care facilities
• Backup during grid outages or planned maintenance

With the right system design, solar gives businesses the ability to make energy a strength - not a vulnerability.

Sustainability credentials and ESG alignment

Sustainability has become a baseline expectation in most sectors - and solar is one of the most direct, measurable ways to reduce your organisation’s emissions footprint.

Grid power in New Zealand is relatively clean by international standards, but it still includes fossil fuel generation - especially during peak demand periods or dry hydrological years. By generating your own solar energy, you’re displacing that fossil component with zero-emissions power.

This helps reduce Scope 2 emissions, supports carbon accounting, and improves performance against ESG reporting frameworks like CDP, TCFD, or Toitū carbon certification.

Solar also shows alignment with government and industry sustainability goals - including:

• New Zealand’s commitment to net zero by 2050
• Climate-related disclosure requirements
• Corporate procurement standards and supplier expectations

It’s not just about doing the right thing - it’s about positioning your business to thrive in a market where sustainability is now part of how performance is measured.

Branding and competitive advantage

Solar isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade - it’s a visible investment in better business.

Customers, staff, suppliers, and stakeholders all pay attention to how companies operate - and solar sends a clear, credible signal. Rooftop arrays, digital monitoring displays, and clean energy milestones can be integrated into brand communications, sustainability reports, and customer-facing spaces.

In some industries, sustainability is now a deciding factor in procurement decisions. In others, it’s a driver of staff engagement, customer loyalty, or even access to finance.

Solar gives your business a tangible point of difference - not just in how you operate, but in what you stand for.

Supporting green procurement and compliance

As sustainability reporting becomes more rigorous, businesses are being asked to show not just intent, but results.

Commercial solar delivers exactly that: verifiable, audited energy and emissions reductions. This can directly support:

• Supplier and government procurement criteria
• Resource Management Act obligations (where applicable)
• Environmental management systems (e.g. ISO 14001)
• Green certification or energy performance rating schemes (e.g. NABERSNZ)

Solar also builds resilience into your compliance position - giving you a proactive story to tell as regulations evolve.

4. Who is commercial solar right for?

Commercial solar isn’t one-size-fits-all - but it’s more widely applicable than many businesses realise.

With falling technology costs, flexible ownership models, and scalable system designs, solar is now a viable option for a broad range of commercial property types and industries across New Zealand.

Owning your building isn’t the only path to solar. With the right planning and structure, solar can work for single-site operators, national portfolios, tenants, and landlords.

Business types and sectors adopting solar

Some of the strongest candidates for commercial solar include:

• Manufacturing and industrial sites
  High daytime loads, continuous equipment use, and ample roof or ground space make these sites ideal for larger systems - often 100kW+.
• Warehousing and logistics
  Large rooftops, long operating hours, and high lighting and HVAC demands support efficient solar self-consumption.
• Retail centres and supermarkets
  Daytime refrigeration and lighting loads, plus strong customer-facing sustainability expectations, make solar a valuable asset.
• Office buildings
  Even mid-size offices with regular business hours can offset a meaningful portion of their electricity use - especially when paired with EV charging or air conditioning systems.
• Agriculture and horticulture
  Packhouses, cool stores, irrigation systems, and dairy sheds often face high energy prices and network charges. Solar can significantly reduce these costs, particularly in rural and off-peak grid areas.
• Hospitality and education
  Schools, hotels, and accommodation providers have stable energy use and are well-suited to roof-mounted solar - with added benefits for sustainability ratings and community perception.

Commercial property owners - the export-only solar model

For commercial landlords and property investors, solar offers value beyond direct energy savings.

One increasingly popular approach is the export-only solar model. In this setup, the landlord installs a solar system on the building’s roof - and exports the electricity directly to the grid. The business receives a feed-in tariff or export credit, generating passive income from an otherwise underutilised surface.

Benefits of this model include:

• Improved property yield
• Increased NABERSNZ or green building ratings
• Enhanced long-term asset value
• Alignment with ESG expectations - without needing to change tenant energy arrangements
• Future-proofing for a market that increasingly values clean, on-site generation

This approach is particularly relevant for larger commercial roofs with no centralised tenant or no coordinated building-wide energy use.

Tenants vs landlords: who can go solar?

A common misconception is that only building owners can benefit from solar. In reality, with the right structure and agreements in place, both tenants and landlords can gain from commercial solar.

For tenants:

• Solar can be installed through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or an energy supply agreement, where the system is owned by the landlord or a third party.
• You pay only for the electricity generated - usually at a lower rate than grid power - without needing to invest capital upfront.
• Solar supply agreements can be tailored to match lease terms, giving cost certainty for the duration of your tenancy.

For landlords:

• Installing solar can increase the value and appeal of your building to environmentally focused tenants.
• A roof lease or PPA model with a solar provider can generate additional income without capital expenditure.
• Solar helps position the asset for better occupancy, longer lease retention, and stronger environmental performance ratings.

With open communication and a shared view of long-term value, solar can be a win-win for both parties.

Key factors to assess suitability

Not every site is a perfect fit for solar - but many are more suitable than they might think. The best starting point is a site-specific assessment. However, some early indicators include:

• Electricity usage profile
  Sites with consistent daytime energy demand (especially 9am–5pm) are typically ideal. Greater self-consumption = stronger returns.
• Business hours
  Extended or daytime-only operations align well with solar production. Night-heavy loads may benefit from future battery integration.
• Building ownership
  Owner-occupiers have more control - but landlord–tenant arrangements can be structured to support solar investment, with the right model.
• Roof space, condition and orientation
  A structurally sound roof with minimal shading and good north-facing exposure offers the best solar yield. Alternate options (e.g. ground-mount or carpark structures) may apply where roofs are unsuitable.
• Future plans
  Planned building expansions, infrastructure upgrades, or roof replacements should be factored into solar system design. Many systems can be staged or scaled later if needed.

A professional feasibility assessment will help determine whether solar is a good fit now - or something to plan for as part of a broader energy or property strategy.

5. Types of commercial solar systems

There’s more than one way to go solar - and the right setup depends on your site, your energy goals, and how your building or land is used.

From standard rooftop arrays to ground-mounted systems and integrated architectural solutions, commercial solar in New Zealand is more adaptable than ever. Each approach comes with its own benefits, and the best fit often comes down to space, ownership structure, and how much control you want over system design.

Below are the four most common system types seen across NZ commercial properties.

Rooftop solar

Rooftop solar is the most widely adopted commercial solar solution - and with good reason. It makes use of existing space, avoids the need for resource consent in most cases, and allows businesses to generate power right where it’s used.

Well-suited to:

• Warehouses and distribution centres
• Commercial office buildings
• Retail complexes, schools, and light industrial sites

Rooftop systems typically range from 15kW to several hundred kW depending on available area, and can be installed on:

• Metal tray, concrete, or membrane roofs
• Flat or pitched roof types
• New builds or retrofits

A well-designed rooftop system can offset a significant share of your site’s daytime electricity use - particularly where energy demand aligns with solar production hours (9am–5pm). These systems can usually be installed with minimal disruption to operations and often don’t require major structural or electrical upgrades, provided the roof is sound.

ZEN engineers systems to account for NZ-specific variables like wind zones, structural loading codes (e.g. NZS 3604), and the local solar resource - to ensure long-term performance and compliance.

Ground-mounted solar

Where roof space is limited or unsuitable, ground-mounted systems offer a scalable alternative - especially for businesses with underutilised land or paddocks adjacent to operations.

Common use cases include:

• Agricultural sites and packhouses
• Regional manufacturers and processors
• Transport depots and rural infrastructure hubs

Ground-mounted systems are installed on steel framing driven or screwed into the soil, allowing for:

• Optimal tilt and orientation for year-round solar generation
• Easy access for maintenance
• Scalable system sizes that can grow with your business

They can be designed to offset your on-site energy use or configured as an export system - particularly useful in rural areas with limited grid supply or high transmission charges.

This option is also well-suited for clients planning future expansions or looking to co-locate solar with electric vehicle infrastructure, water pumps, or processing lines.

Solar car park structures

Solar carports turn everyday infrastructure into a dual-purpose asset - providing both shelter and power.

These systems are increasingly being adopted by:

• Shopping centres and commercial precincts
• Public sector facilities, councils, and universities
• Office buildings with large open car parks

Key benefits:

• Covered parking for staff, visitors, or customers
• Clean energy generation without using up roof or internal floor space
• Integration with EV charging bays, improving future readiness
• Strong visual alignment with sustainability values

Carport structures are custom-designed for each site. They can be retrofitted to existing parking or built as part of a new development - with options for single or double-row parking and modular expansion over time.

In many cases, these systems contribute positively to green building certifications and amenity scores in commercial property portfolios.

Building-integrated solar (BIPV)

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) blur the line between energy generation and architecture. Rather than mounting panels on top of a structure, BIPV systems embed solar directly into the building materials - transforming facades, glass, or roofing into power-generating surfaces.

Examples include:

• Solar glass facades and skylights
• Curtain wall systems with embedded PV
• Solar tiles or steel-clad roofing with integrated modules

While BIPV is less common than traditional systems, it's gaining traction in:

• High-end commercial developments
• Sustainability-focused new builds
• Projects targeting net-zero energy or premium NABERSNZ scores

These systems support reduced embodied carbon, improved thermal performance, and visually seamless integration - ideal for clients who want to showcase innovation and long-term environmental commitment.

Because of the higher cost and design complexity, BIPV is most often used in early-stage project planning, rather than as a retrofit option.

6. How commercial solar works

Understanding how a commercial solar system works helps remove the guesswork - and gives you confidence to assess whether it’s the right fit for your site.

At a high level, solar power systems convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power your operations. But what makes commercial solar effective is how that energy generation is designed, integrated, and optimised to meet the specific demands of your business.

Let’s break down the core elements - from components to grid connection.

Key components explained

Every commercial solar system is built from a combination of engineered components, each playing a specific role in system performance and reliability:

Solar panels

Mounted on your roof, ground, or carport structure, panels convert sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity. Panel selection is based on factors like efficiency, footprint, warranty, and performance in NZ’s varied conditions - including cooler temperatures and high UV exposure.

Inverters

Inverters convert DC into AC (alternating current) - the form of electricity your business uses. Commercial systems often use string inverters, central inverters, or increasingly, hybrid inverters that integrate battery management. The choice depends on system size, layout, and the electrical characteristics of the site.

Mounting and racking systems

Mounting systems secure panels to the building or structure. For NZ conditions, these are designed to meet wind zone requirements and building code standards. Rooftop systems use tilt or flush-mount frames depending on roof pitch, while ground-mount and carport structures are engineered for stability and optimal sun exposure.

Monitoring systems

All ZEN Energy systems include a monitoring portal, allowing you to track:

• Real-time solar generation
• Grid import/export
• System performance trends over time

These insights are key for identifying underperformance and optimising energy use across your site.

Battery storage (optional)

Batteries store excess solar energy for use outside of generation hours - such as early morning, evening peaks, or during outages. While not essential for all sites, batteries can offer significant value in the right scenarios (covered in 6.3 below).

System design and assessment

Before anything is installed, the system needs to be properly assessed and designed to match your site, energy profile, and future plans.

The design process includes:

• Load profiling
  Analysing your energy usage across hours, days, and seasons - using interval data where available. This shows when you’re using power and how much solar can realistically offset.
• Energy audit
  Reviewing power bills, tariffs, and demand charges to understand how energy is billed and where the highest-value savings can be achieved.
• Site inspection
  Looking at:
• • Roof or land condition, tilt, and shading
  • Structural and electrical capacity
  • Switchboard layout and metering setup
  • Nearby infrastructure (e.g. transformers, substations)
  • Safety and access for installation

The aim is to design a system that maximises self-consumption, avoids oversizing, and provides the best return based on your energy patterns.

We also assess future scalability - whether that’s adding more panels, integrating EV chargers, or connecting battery storage later.

Grid-tied and hybrid setups

Most commercial systems in New Zealand are grid-tied - meaning they operate in parallel with the grid. Solar is used when it’s available, and the grid supplies power when needed (e.g. at night or during high-demand periods). Any excess solar generation can be exported.

In some cases, a hybrid system with battery storage is more appropriate. These are particularly useful for:

• Load shifting
  Store solar energy during the day, and use it later - reducing peak usage charges.
• Peak shaving
  Reduce grid demand during peak pricing periods, lowering demand-related charges on your power bill.
• Backup power
  Maintain uptime during grid outages - especially for refrigeration, IT systems, or critical machinery.
• Remote or fringe-of-grid operations
  Improve energy reliability in areas with limited supply or frequent disruptions.

While batteries increase capital cost, they can significantly boost flexibility and control. Many clients choose to install solar first and add batteries later, once patterns of generation and usage are better understood.

Connection to the grid

Connecting a commercial solar system to the grid involves working closely with the local lines company - the regulated entity that manages electricity distribution in your area.

Each network has its own connection process, but typically includes:

• Connection application - outlining system specs, expected generation, and export intentions.
• Export approval - lines companies may limit how much you can feed back to the grid based on local capacity.
• Metering configuration - including import/export metering, ripple relay compatibility, and any hardware upgrades.
• Final commissioning - the system is tested, signed off, and registered with the appropriate authorities.

In New Zealand, some networks support net metering (crediting exported energy against your bill), while others offer feed-in tariffs at fixed rates. Either way, on-site consumption remains the key driver of ROI, as export rates are typically lower than retail electricity prices.

An experienced provider like ZEN manages the entire process - ensuring the system meets both technical requirements and regulatory obligations, so it’s connected safely, efficiently, and with minimal admin for your team.

7. Cost, ROI and finance options

One of the first questions most businesses ask is simple: What will it cost, and is it worth it?

The good news is that commercial solar has become significantly more cost-effective - and for many New Zealand businesses, the return on investment is now clear, predictable, and measurable.

That said, system costs and financial outcomes vary depending on your site, operations, and funding approach. Let’s break it down.

System costs and key variables

There’s no flat rate for commercial solar - every system is customised. But certain variables have a consistent impact on total project cost:

• System size (measured in kilowatts, or kW)
• Mounting type (e.g. rooftop, ground-mounted, carport)
• Site access and installation complexity
• Electrical infrastructure upgrades (e.g. switchboard, metering, cabling)
• Technology selection (e.g. panel brand, inverters, optimisers, batteries)

Indicative pricing by system size (NZ context)

These figures are approximate and based on turnkey systems using quality tier-one components:

• 30kW system (e.g. small commercial site, workshop): $45,000–$60,000 +GST
• 100kW system (e.g. mid-size building or logistics hub): $120,000–$160,000 +GST
• 250kW+ system (e.g. industrial facility or large warehouse): $300,000+ +GST

These ranges exclude battery storage and assume standard grid connection approvals. A proper site audit is always required to scope final design and cost - especially where grid export, trenching, or roof engineering is involved.

Return on investment

Solar is a capital investment - but unlike many infrastructure projects, it begins delivering value from day one.

Typical NZ ROI ranges

Most commercial solar systems in New Zealand achieve simple payback within 4–7 years, depending on:

• How much solar power can be consumed on-site (self-consumption)
• Local electricity rates (especially in regions with high transmission costs)
• Whether any feed-in tariffs are available
• System size and capital cost
• Quality and efficiency of the components used

After the system has paid for itself, your business continues to benefit from free, clean energy for the remainder of the system’s lifespan - typically 20–25 years.

Simple vs NPV payback

• Simple payback shows how long it takes to recover your initial investment through energy savings.
• NPV (Net Present Value) accounts for inflation, energy price increases, and the time value of money - especially useful for larger projects or enterprise decision-makers.

For many NZ businesses, solar delivers a compelling outcome on both fronts - particularly when long-term savings are paired with improved cash flow, sustainability gains, and protection against future electricity price rises.

Finance and funding options

Not every business wants to pay for a solar system upfront - and that’s fine. There are now flexible funding models that allow you to access the benefits of solar while preserving capital or spreading cost over time.

CAPEX vs OPEX models

• CAPEX (Capital Expenditure):
  You purchase the system outright and own the asset from day one. This typically provides the highest ROI over the system’s life, and the asset may be depreciated over time under IRD rules. You retain full control of system output and savings.
• OPEX (Operating Expenditure):
  You pay for the solar system as a service, often via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or operating lease. There’s no capital outlay - instead, you agree to buy the solar energy generated on-site at a pre-agreed rate (usually lower than your current grid tariff).

Finance options available in NZ

• Green business loans
  Most major NZ banks - including ANZ, BNZ, and Westpac - offer green loans or sustainability-linked finance products. These can provide preferential rates for solar and energy-efficiency upgrades, often tied to emissions reduction targets.
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
  A third party funds and owns the system, and you purchase the electricity it generates at an agreed rate per kWh. Maintenance and performance responsibility sits with the PPA provider. At the end of the term, you may have the option to buy the system outright.
• Solar leasing
  Similar to equipment leasing, this involves fixed monthly payments for access to the solar system - often bundled with monitoring and servicing.
• Third-party ownership and roof leases
  In some cases, landlords lease their roof to an energy provider who installs a system and exports the energy to the grid - generating income through feed-in credits, with no disruption to tenants.
• Local council or emissions funding
  While there are currently no national solar subsidies for businesses, some councils support emissions-reduction initiatives or building upgrades through grants or low-interest funding. These vary by region and are often tied to carbon accounting frameworks.

For many organisations, choosing the right financing model is just as important as choosing the right system. Whether you’re aiming for long-term asset ownership or looking for a no-capex solution, there are viable options to suit most operating models - and ZEN can guide you through the process.

8. Real-world commercial solar in action

Across sectors and site types, more organisations are using solar to take control of their energy use, reduce long-term costs, and deliver on sustainability commitments. Learn more through our commercial case studies. Below are two examples of how ZEN Energy is helping New Zealand businesses and councils put commercial solar to work.

Case Study 1: Uniplas - Lower Hutt (940kW)‍

Turning energy overhead into opportunity

For Lower Hutt-based manufacturer Uniplas, electricity isn’t just a utility - it’s a major operational cost. With heavy machinery running across daylight hours and energy prices continuing to rise, the team saw a clear opportunity to take control.

They partnered with ZEN Energy to implement a large-scale commercial solar and storage system — designed not only to reduce reliance on the grid, but to strengthen long-term energy resilience and support their sustainability commitments.

The solution: A future-ready energy system

ZEN worked closely with Uniplas to design and deliver a system tailored to the site’s operating profile and energy load characteristics.

System at a glance:

• Location: Lower Hutt, Wellington region
• System size: 940kW, comprising over 1,600 solar panels
• Live generation capacity: up to 880kWh per hour
• Includes advanced battery storage for energy management and resilience

The system was engineered to maximise on-site solar usage while maintaining performance visibility and backup capability. By integrating battery storage, Uniplas can now shift load, reduce peak demand charges, and ensure continuity during outages.

The impact so far

Although recently installed, early performance data and energy modelling show strong indications of the system’s long-term value.

Modelled outcomes:

• Up to 70% reduction in daytime grid energy use
• Projected annual savings of over $250,000
• 860,000 kWh of solar generation expected to be used on-site per year
• Equivalent to powering 3,000 New Zealand homes or planting 185,625 trees over the system’s lifetime

This outcome positions Uniplas well for carbon reporting and sustainability certification, while protecting the business against electricity market volatility.

Client perspective‍

“With energy costs on the rise, we saw an opportunity to make a smart investment - not just for the future of our business, but for the planet too.”
‍

“Our new solar system with ZEN is both a hedge against one of our biggest overheads and a reflection of our strong commitment to sustainability. Designed with performance and efficiency in mind, it’s already set to deliver a strong return within a few short years.” - Joe, Uniplas

‍Our take‍

“We’re proud to support Uniplas in their move to solar. This system reflects what’s possible when energy strategy aligns with long-term business planning. It delivers measurable operational savings, greater energy independence, and a tangible step forward on sustainability.” - Dan, ZEN Energy

‍Why it matters

Uniplas’ journey shows how New Zealand manufacturers and industrial operators can use solar to:

• Cut operating costs
• Reduce Scope 2 emissions
• Strengthen resilience against outages and pricing shocks
• Future-proof facilities with scalable, grid-aware infrastructure

With the right partner and system design, clean energy becomes not just viable - but commercially compelling.

Case Study 2: H₂O Xtream - Upper Hutt (159kW)

Supporting sustainability and smart energy strategy for community infrastructure

H₂O Xtream, a public aquatic facility operated by Upper Hutt City Council, faced the dual challenge of high daytime energy use and increasing pressure to meet environmental targets. With a focus on corporate responsibility and long-term cost control, the Council saw commercial solar as a strategic step forward.

They partnered with ZEN Energy to install a clean energy system that would support the site’s sustainability goals, reduce its carbon footprint, and improve energy resilience - all while delivering a measurable return on investment.

The solution: A tailored system for a high-demand facility

ZEN designed and delivered a system sized specifically to match the site’s energy profile - supporting both sustainability objectives and operational performance.

System at a glance:

• Location: Upper Hutt, Wellington region
• System size: 159kW, comprising 274 rooftop solar panels
• Live generation capacity: up to 185kWh per hour
• Inverter technology: GoodWe high-capacity inverter for optimised performance

The system was engineered to reduce grid dependency during daylight hours and deliver energy cost savings without disrupting day-to-day facility operations.

The impact so far

Although newly installed, the system is already supporting H₂O Xtream’s core goals of reducing emissions and controlling long-term energy costs.

Modelled outcomes:

• ~25% energy savings
• ROI projected within 5 years
• 13% reduction in Scope 2 emissions expected in year one
• Lifetime equivalent of 510 trees planted
• Equivalent to powering 600 New Zealand homes

This system also reinforces Upper Hutt City Council’s broader commitment to climate action and environmental leadership within the public sector.

Client perspective

“With energy costs on the rise, we saw an opportunity to make a smart investment - not just for the future of our business, but for the planet too.Our new solar system with ZEN is both a hedge against one of our biggest overheads and a reflection of our strong commitment to sustainability. Designed with performance and efficiency in mind, it’s already set to deliver a strong return within a few short years and significantly reduce our carbon emissions.” - Richard, Upper Hutt City Council

Our take

“We’re pleased H₂O Xtream made the move to solar energy. This system supports their cost-savings goals and strengthens their energy resilience. It also meaningfully reduces their Scope 2 emissions and enhances their sustainability credentials.” - Mike, ZEN Energy

Why it matters

H₂O Xtream’s solar project shows how local government and community facilities can lead the way in:

• Reducing emissions and demonstrating ESG leadership
• Achieving measurable cost savings within tight public budgets
• Meeting climate commitments through visible, high-impact upgrades
• Investing in infrastructure that serves both operational and environmental goals

With smart design and council-aligned planning, solar energy becomes a powerful tool for community sustainability.

9. The commercial solar installation process

Installing a commercial solar system is a structured process - and when managed properly, it shouldn’t interrupt your operations or create unnecessary complexity.

From initial feasibility through to final commissioning and ongoing support, every stage is designed to ensure the system is technically sound, compliant with local regulations, and optimised for long-term performance.

Here’s what to expect at each step of the process.

Site inspection and feasibility study

The first step is to determine whether your site is suitable for solar - and if so, what type and size of system will deliver the best results.

This stage involves a detailed feasibility assessment, typically including:

• Load analysis
  Reviewing historical energy data (ideally with 30-minute interval readings) to map out usage trends, peak loads, and opportunities for solar offset.
• Roof or land assessment
  Evaluating usable space, structural integrity, orientation, pitch, and potential shading issues. For ground-mount systems, we assess soil conditions and site access.
• Switchboard and electrical review
  Verifying that your electrical infrastructure can support solar integration, or identifying any required upgrades (e.g., new circuit breakers, isolators, or cable runs).
• Health and safety planning
  Ensuring compliance with NZ workplace safety standards, including edge protection, equipment access, and fall prevention.

This phase also includes initial energy modelling - forecasting system output, potential cost savings, and payback timeframes based on your site and electricity profile.

As part of this process, it's also critical to assess your site's electrical infrastructure limits.

Solar systems must be sized not only for your energy needs but also for what your building’s switchboard, transformers, and grid connection points can safely handle.

For example, while your roof might have enough space for a 1MW array, your site's infrastructure may only accommodate 400kW without major (and costly) upgrades.

A thorough feasibility study balances solar generation potential with your site's real-world electrical limits - helping you avoid oversizing, unnecessary infrastructure costs, and underperforming investment returns.

System design, consent and approvals

Once feasibility is confirmed, we move into detailed design and approvals - where engineering meets operational goals.

This step involves:

• System layout and component selection
  Finalising panel and inverter specs, racking design, cable routes, and monitoring tools - all tailored to your building or land.
• Engineering sign-off
  Structural and electrical engineering review in line with NZ building and electrical codes. This ensures compliance with NZS 1170 (wind and seismic loads), AS/NZS 3000 (wiring rules), and any site-specific engineering requirements.
• Council consent
  Most commercial rooftop systems are exempt from building consent under NZ’s Schedule 1 provisions - but larger or structurally complex installations may require consent. ZEN will manage this process as needed.
• Lines company approvals
  Each distribution network operator (DNO) has its own connection process. This includes:
• • Submitting an application
  • Securing export approval (if applicable)
  • Coordinating with metering providers
  • Scheduling commissioning inspections

At this point, you’ll receive a formal proposal and scope of works, outlining project timelines, pricing, deliverables, and warranty terms.

Installation and commissioning

With design and approvals complete, installation begins. The timeline varies based on system size, roof condition, and complexity - but most commercial installs take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

During this phase:

• Work is scheduled around your business hours where possible, minimising disruption.
• All installations are completed by qualified electricians and solar installers, with strict adherence to site-specific health and safety protocols.
• Structural fixings, cable runs, and inverter placements are done with long-term accessibility and durability in mind.

Once the system is installed, it’s tested, inspected, and commissioned:

• AC and DC testing is completed
• Monitoring systems are connected and verified
• Final paperwork is submitted to the lines company
• The system is officially registered and energised

You’ll receive a full handover pack including:

• Electrical compliance certificates
• Warranty documentation
• As-built drawings and specs
• Monitoring login credentials
• A maintenance and support guide

Ongoing monitoring and maintenance

After installation, ongoing monitoring ensures your system continues to perform as expected - and that any issues are picked up early.

Most commercial solar systems include cloud-based monitoring portals, giving you 24/7 visibility of:

• Solar generation
• Grid import and export
• Energy usage and savings
• Fault alerts and system performance

Regular maintenance includes:

• Annual inspections to check for wear, loose connections, or shading changes
• Panel cleaning (especially in dusty, agricultural, or coastal areas)
• Inverter checks and firmware updates
• Performance benchmarking against forecast generation

Most systems also include long-term warranties to give you confidence in your investment:

• 25-year performance warranties on panels
• 5–10 year warranties on inverters
• Workmanship warranties of 5+ years, depending on the installation contract

With proper monitoring and routine maintenance, your system will continue to deliver strong, reliable performance - year after year.

10. Choosing the right solar partner

Installing commercial solar isn’t just about choosing panels - it’s about choosing the right partner to design, deliver, and support your system for the long haul.

A high-performing system relies on more than just good components. It takes technical expertise, local experience, and a commercial mindset. The right partner will understand your business, tailor the design to your goals, manage the entire process - and stand behind the results.

Here’s what to look for in a commercial solar provider - and why more NZ businesses are choosing ZEN Energy.

What to look for in a commercial solar provider

Proven experience with commercial projects

Commercial installations come with very different challenges to residential ones - from structural loading to switchboard integration and compliance. Look for a provider with a clear track record delivering systems for businesses like yours. Ask for case studies, references, and examples of previous work in your sector.

In-house engineering capability

No two sites are the same. System design should be handled by qualified engineers who understand solar, energy modelling, NZ electrical standards, and site constraints. Pre-fab designs don’t cut it for long-term performance - especially in high wind zones, coastal locations, or complex buildings.

End-to-end project management

From initial site visits to lines company coordination and final commissioning, solar projects require experienced, hands-on management. A good provider will take responsibility for the entire process -including consents, compliance, and communication.

Ongoing support and monitoring

Post-installation support matters. Choose a provider that offers local support, real-time monitoring, and responsive service - not just a handover and walk-away. The ability to track performance, diagnose issues, and act quickly is critical for maximising ROI.

The value of local knowledge

Each region in New Zealand has its own:

• Lines company approval process
• Export rules and network constraints
• Engineering conditions (e.g. wind zones, snow loads)
• Local climate and solar irradiance profiles

A provider with deep local experience can:

• Streamline network approvals
• Ensure structural compliance with NZ building codes
• Design your system for maximum output in local conditions
• Navigate regional nuances that can delay or derail less experienced providers

This local expertise also helps future-proof your system - especially if you plan to expand your operations, upgrade electrical infrastructure, or integrate new technologies like EV charging or battery storage.

Questions to ask before you commit

Before signing with a provider, ask them:

• How many commercial solar systems have you delivered in NZ?
• Can you provide examples in our industry or building type?
• Do you have in-house engineers, or is design outsourced?
• What happens if there’s a performance issue post-install?
• What warranties do you offer - and who backs them?
• Will we have access to real-time monitoring and support?
• How do you handle lines company approvals and building consent?

Reputable providers will answer clearly, back their claims with evidence, and focus on long-term value - not just installation day.

Why ZEN Energy is trusted by NZ businesses

At ZEN Energy, we design and deliver solar systems that work - not just in proposals, but in practice.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Proven commercial experience, with systems installed across manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, education, and commercial property
• In-house design and engineering, customised to your energy profile and site conditions
• Local knowledge, including close working relationships with New Zealand’s lines companies and regional consent authorities
• End-to-end delivery, from feasibility and modelling through to installation and aftercare
• Ongoing partnerships, not one-off installs - with post-install monitoring, maintenance, and responsive service included

We take the time to understand your business, align the system to your strategic goals, and deliver energy outcomes you can rely on - year after year.

11. Ready to start your solar journey?

If you’re exploring commercial solar, you’re already thinking ahead. This guide is here to help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Whether you're looking for a detailed assessment or simply want to understand what’s possible, we’re here to help you figure it out.

We’ll walk you through:

• What a tailored solar solution could look like for your site
• The expected savings and return on investment
• System design options based on your energy profile and operations
• Finance and ownership models that align with your goals

No pressure. No assumptions. Just a clear, practical conversation to help you make an informed decision.

Book a free consultation

Get expert advice from a team that specialises in solar for New Zealand businesses.

Speak to our commercial solar team

Request a solar feasibility assessment

12. About ZEN Energy Commercial

ZEN Energy is a New Zealand-owned solar company, delivering high-performing commercial systems that reduce costs, cut emissions, and strengthen energy resilience.

We work with SMEs and enterprise clients nationwide - including manufacturers, agri-operators, landlords, logistics firms, and schools - to design and deliver clean, reliable energy solutions.

Each project is supported by a dedicated commercial team, including a solar engineer, designer, and project manager. We’ve completed 50+ commercial installations in the past five years and bring 50+ years of combined solar engineering expertise to every job.

We use Orkestra-powered modelling tools for accurate financial forecasting and back every system with rigorous technical reviews, NZ health & safety compliance, and manufacturer-supported warranties - using only proven, world-class technology partners.

Whether you're working within tight timelines or managing operational complexity, we tailor delivery to your site, your goals, and the way your business runs.