Your solar installation journey, step by step
Installing solar is straightforward. But there are a few steps that need to happen in the right order to make sure your system is safe, compliant and ready to generate.
Here's the whole process, start to finish, so nothing catches you off guard.
1. Choose a Solassure certified installer
Your installer will discuss your energy needs, inspect your property, and prepare a customised system design and quotation.
Take your time reviewing the proposal. This is your best opportunity to ask questions and make sure you understand what you're buying. It should cover:
- The system size and expected performance
- The equipment being installed
- Costs and payment terms
- Estimated installation timeframe, end to end
- Warranties and ongoing support
- What happens after installation
If any of that is vague, ask. A good installer will welcome the question.
2. Organise finance
Many banks offer short-term, low or no-interest finance on solar and battery systems.
If you plan to use one of these, apply once you've decided on your installer and have your costs confirmed.
3. Accept the proposal
When you're ready, you'll sign the agreement and usually pay an initial deposit.
Your deposit is protected. As part of the Solassure programme, accredited providers keep customer deposits separate from normal business operating funds. It's a straightforward safeguard, and it matters more than most people realise at signing time.
4. Network approval
Before installation can begin, your installer applies to your local electricity network company for permission to connect your system.
- Approval typically takes up to 10 working days
- In some cases the network company may apply conditions, such as an export limit, to keep the local network operating safely
Your installer will keep you informed throughout.
5. Installation day
Once approval comes through, your installation date is confirmed. On the day, your installer will:
- Install your solar system
- Complete all required electrical certification
- Arrange any necessary paperwork
6. Meter upgrade
Most homes need a new electricity meter, one that measures both:
- Electricity you import from the grid, and
- Electricity you export from your system back to the grid
Your installer will help arrange this. It may happen before or after the installation itself.
7. Electrical inspection
After installation, your system stays switched off until an independent electrical inspection has been completed.
Your installer organises the inspector to visit and confirm all work is safe and compliant. If anything needs rectifying, they'll let you know.
This step is not a formality. It's the reason you can trust what's on your roof.
8. System turn on
Once everything is approved and the new meter is installed, your system is switched on.
Be aware this can sometimes take a few weeks, depending on your location and local timelines. It's the most common source of surprise in the whole process, so it's worth knowing upfront.
9. System handover
Your installer will provide:
- Operating instructions
- User manuals and warranty information
- System documentation
- Guidance on monitoring your system's performance
- A walkthrough explaining how everything works and what aftercare is available
10. Choose the right electricity plan
Once your system is running, it's worth reviewing your electricity plan. The best one depends on how you use power.
- If you have a battery: a plan with low overnight or off-peak rates may reduce your costs further.
- If your system exports a lot: look for a retailer offering competitive buy-back (export) rates.
Your Solassure installer can help you work out which type of plan is likely to give the best value for your home. It's an easy step to skip, and one of the cheapest ways to improve your return.
Built on standards
The Solassure programme is backed by the Sustainable Energy Association of New Zealand.