A Beginner’s Guide to Going Solar
Simple steps to start your solar journey and join the WE Share community.
Welcome
Going solar is simpler than you think. This guide walks you through each stage — helping you save money, gain independence, and strengthen our Waiheke community.
Ready? Let’s start.
Why Go Solar?
Before you get quotes, think about why solar matters to you:
- Save money on your power bills
- Be more independent
- Help the environment
- Increase your property’s value
- Support local energy sharing through WE Share
- Knowing your goals helps you make smarter choices.
What solar can do for you:
Beyond savings, solar brings resilience and community benefit:
- Lower electricity costs
- Keep the lights on during blackouts (with a battery)
- Reduce emissions
- Boost your home’s value
- Be part of local energy change with WE Share
- It’s a win for you and for our island community.
Check if Your Home’s a Good Fit
Most homes in Aotearoa have solar potential. Here’s how to check:
- Gets sun most of the day?
- North-facing or east/west roof is best
- Minimal shading?
- Roof in good condition?
- Coastal or high wind? Choose quality hardware
- If you’re unsure, your installer can assess this for you.
Plan and Compare
Think about how you use power and what matters most:
- When do you use the most energy?
- Do you have big loads (spa, EV charger, heat pump)?
- Planning upgrades or renovations?
- Want backup power at night?
Then create your wishlist:
- Lowest upfront cost or best long-term savings?
- Add a battery now or later?
- Want to charge an EV?
- Interested in joining the WE Share Community Power Project?
When you’re ready, get a few quotes:
- SEANZ-accredited provider
- Clear and honest communication
- Proven service and warranty support
- Experience with battery systems and VPP-ready designs
- Choose a partner, not just a price.
Finance and Choose
You don’t need to pay upfront — explore your options:
- Cash payment = biggest savings
- Solar loans = spread the cost
- Mortgage top-up = add to your existing mortgage
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) = pay per kWh (coming soon)
- WE Share–aligned finance = Wholesale systems available now for the current pilot stage of 50 additional installs; additional finance options coming soon.
- Choose what fits your budget and goals.
Before you commit:
- Review the full proposal carefully
- Confirm approvals and paperwork
- Check installation timeline and aftercare
- Make sure everything’s in writing
- Pick a company you trust. You’ll work with them for years.
Installation and Handover
Here’s what to expect:
- Installers will access your roof, switchboard, and Wi-Fi
- Some noise and activity for a day or two
- The system is safety-checked and connected
- Your network will require a DG meter, and depending on the network, installation can take time
After installation:
- You’ll get a walkthrough and all documentation
- Battery and backup setup explained
- Monitoring app activated
- Shutdown and safety steps shown
- A professional team handles everything.
Optimise and Go Further
Once your system is running:
- Check your monitoring app occasionally
- Keep panels clean and clear of shading
- Ask about upgrades (battery, EV charger, VPP connection)
- Stay future-ready with smart management
- Solar is low-maintenance — small checks make a big difference.
Join the WE Share Community Power Project
Be part of a smarter, locally powered energy future.
If you install through the WE Share pilot special-pricing offer, your system becomes part of the community pilot under our Terms & Conditions.
This ensures your installation, data, and participation help us prove what a community-owned energy system can do for Waiheke.
If you’re not taking up the pilot pricing, you can still get involved — follow updates, support local projects, or take part in future sub-pilots and community circles.
Full participation options are explained in the Get Involved section.