Solar panel rule change to save Kiwis time and money

Most New Zealand homeowners can now install rooftop solar panels without needing a building consent, after a change to the Building Act came into force.

Earlier this year, the Government announced the change to clarify that a building consent was not required to install rooftop solar panels on existing homes and commercial buildings. The exemption now applies, significantly simplifying the process for households that want to generate their own renewable energy.

For larger rooftop installations – those exceeding 40 square metres in total area per roof – or in areas with very high winds, a chartered professional engineer must still provide or review the design of the structural fixings for the exemption to apply. However, most residential solar arrays are between 25 and 30 square metres, meaning the majority of homeowners will not need to involve an engineer.

Building & Construction Minister Chris Penk said decision-making on solar panel consents had varied between councils, creating uncertainty for homeowners. “Making the process simpler by removing burdensome red tape is expected to save Kiwis around $1,200 per consent and help avoid unnecessary delays,” he said.

Fast-track consents for sustainable buildings

Earlier this year, the Government also announced an incentive to encourage more New Zealanders to switch to solar by fast-tracking building consents for new residential buildings with solar power systems. The processing time has been halved from 20 working days to just 10. Now, the Government has confirmed it will expand this fast-track consent pathway to cover sustainable buildings – a new category to be defined in the Building Act. 

To qualify, buildings will need to meet performance criteria demonstrating at least one of the following: high energy efficiency, water efficiency, low embodied carbon or climate resiliency.

“Legislation to create a fast-track building consent process for sustainable buildings, including those with solar panels, will be included in a Bill I intend to introduce to Parliament early next year,” Mr Penk said.

Do you know any homeowners or buyers who are considering installing solar panels or building a sustainable home and who would like to understand their finance options? If so, I’d be grateful if you could make an introduction.