SOLAR ON FARMS
Our farming community has always been the backbone to a strong Aotearoa - from producing food that feeds the world to keeping our local economy thriving at home. With a deep understanding of both the land and good business, kiwi farmers are stewards, innovators, and problem solvers ready to embrace new solutions.
With power prices continuing to rise, and more and more financial tools coming to market, it has never been a better time to go solar for greater on-farm value and energy independence.
At ZEN Energy, we customise solar and battery solutions to deliver against your specific farm’s goals and operational requirements.
We specialise in Offgrid, Hybrid, and rural systems designed to:
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What you can expect at each step
THE ZEN PROCESS
FOR YOUR FARM
We are engaged and present through every step of your solar journey. Our sales team and technical engineers will assess your property to determine the right system size for you.
Free Solar Feasibility Assessment
Meet and understand your requirements.
Technical Site Visit & Study
We may conduct a paid site study at your farm before providing a customised quote.
Full Installation Management
End to end support in terms of delivering your solar project.
Monitoring & Maintenance
Provide relevant tools and ongoing support. Includes regular check-ins involving panel cleaning and maintenance.
DAIRY FARM PAYBACK GUIDANCE
Size
Small
(200 cows)
Medium
(400 cows)
Large
(600+ cows)
Shed Type
Herringbone,
older rotary
Rotary or larger
herringbone
High-capacity
rotary, feedpads etc.
Roof Size
300-500m²
500-800m²
800-1,200m²
Typical Array Size
40kW
60kW
100kW
Cost
$60,000
$85,000
$130,000
ROI
6 years
5 years
5 years
Savings per year
$10,000
$15,000
$25,000
Finnerty Farms
Interest from farmers regarding solar on farms has exploded over the last few months, so we were delighted to be approached by Ang and Dean Finnerty from the Waikato region to provide a solution for solar across both their farms.
The Finnertys were keen to see a large reduction in their on-site power consumption, as they felt exposed to any power pricing increases. The pressure of rising power prices has been a key concern for farmers, especially goat farmers, so they were keen to see the impact solar could have on their bottom line. Our sales manager, Dan, conducted a site study to determine the optimal size of system that would best suit Ang and Dean’s objectives. Utilising their known power utilisation data, ZEN demonstrated strong solar ROI, helping cut costs in their daily operations considerably.
Two of the Finnerty farm sites are now powered by ZEN Energy, demonstrating the Finnerty's commitment to sustainable business, exceptional bottom-line outcomes, and a more abundant energy future.
Products
Site 1: Goat Farm
- 1 x GoodWe SMT 50.0kW 3P 5MPPT Inverter
- 152 LONGi 440W panels
- Premium Schletter rails
Site 2: Dairy Farm
- 1 x GoodWe SMT 50.0kW 3P 5MPPT Inverter
- 104 LONGi 440W panels
- Premium Schletter rails
"I was approached by a few different solar companies but I'm delighted we went with ZEN. They conducted a site study, and showcased a level of support and professionalism that was superior to the others. From a top quality sales representative in Dan, to a smooth install and excellent after care, we are extremely pleased with our ZEN solar system."
- Ang Finnerty, Finnerty Farms
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Interest from farmers regarding solar on farms has exploded over the last few months, so we were delighted to be approached by Ang and Dean Finnerty from the Waikato region to provide a solution for solar across both their farms.
The Finnertys were keen to see a large reduction in their on-site power consumption, as they felt exposed to any power pricing increases. The pressure of rising power prices has been a key concern for farmers, especially goat farmers, so they were keen to see the impact solar could have on their bottom line. Our sales manager, Dan, conducted a site study to determine the optimal size of system that would best suit Ang and Dean’s objectives. Utilising their known power utilisation data, ZEN demonstrated strong solar ROI, helping cut costs in their daily operations considerably.
Two of the Finnerty farm sites are now powered by ZEN Energy, demonstrating the Finnerty's commitment to sustainable business, exceptional bottom-line outcomes, and a more abundant energy future.
Products
Site 1: Goat Farm
- 1 x GoodWe SMT 50.0kW 3P 5MPPT Inverter
- 152 LONGi 440W panels
- Premium Schletter rails
Site 2: Dairy Farm
- 1 x GoodWe SMT 50.0kW 3P 5MPPT Inverter
- 104 LONGi 440W panels
- Premium Schletter rails
"I was approached by a few different solar companies but I'm delighted we went with ZEN. They conducted a site study, and showcased a level of support and professionalism that was superior to the others. From a top quality sales representative in Dan, to a smooth install and excellent after care, we are extremely pleased with our ZEN solar system."
- Ang Finnerty, Finnerty Farms
Making the switch is easy
INDUSTRY SUPPORT exists to accelerate your decision
The Government’s Investment Boost:
A tax incentive that will enable a 20% reduction on the cost of new assets.
Tax Deductible
ASB has a 5-year interest free loan for up to $150k for solar and battery installations. Whoever you bank with is likely to want to explore favourable lending terms.
INTEREST FREE
LOANS
EECA’s Practical Toolkit to assist in decision making: A practical toolkit by EECA including dedicated help for farmers, feasibility studies and more.
SUPPORT FROM
EECA
Reinvent How
You Do Power
Talk to our team and get solar for your business
RESOURCES
Shrinking supply, rising prices and why commercial solar will be part of the solution for many. In 2025, many commercial and industrial energy consumers in New Zealand are confronting an uncomfortable reality: the era of cheap, plentiful natural gas is fading fast.
Solar for farms is gaining serious momentum in New Zealand as power costs rise and government backing increases. This comprehensive guide covers system options, financial returns, and practical applications for forward-thinking farming operations.
Installing solar panels on rental properties is now a strategic investment for landlords. Solar can help you increase rental income, achieve Green Star credentials, cut tenant energy costs, and enable tenants to reduce their carbon footprint, making it a beneficial commercial decision.