New Zealand is making it easier to go solar! The government has introduced a new exemption for building consent on rooftop photovoltaic systems, effective October 23, 2025. This move streamlines the process for homeowners and businesses, removing previous hurdles like varying council standards and lengthy approvals. It's a significant step toward accelerating solar adoption across the country.
New Policy Simplifies Rooftop PV Installation
Under the Building (Exemption for Rooftop Photovoltaic Systems and Building Work) Order 2025, installing a rooftop photovoltaic system no longer requires a building consent from local councils. This applies to residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, provided the installation covers less than 40m² and is in areas with maximum wind speeds up to 44 m/s. For larger setups or high-wind zones, a chartered professional engineer must review the structural design. Pre-engineered kitsets can bypass additional checks, making most home solar power systems eligible without delays.
Cost and Time Savings for Solar Adopters
This exemption cuts red tape and saves money. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk highlighted that inconsistent council approvals often caused uncertainty and added costs. Now, households can save around NZ$1,200 in permit fees and avoid wait times of 10-20 working days. This speeds up project timelines, allowing faster installation and connection of solar energy power systems. For installers and property owners, it means higher efficiency and lower barriers to adopting rooftop solar generation.
Maintaining Safety in Rooftop Installations
While the building consent are waived, safety remains a priority. All rooftop PV installations must comply with the Building Code, ensuring structural integrity, electrical safety, and fire resistance. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will monitor implementation to assess impacts and adjust standards if needed. This balance of flexibility and oversight helps protect consumers and promote reliable residential photovoltaic system deployments nationwide.
Boosting Sustainable Building in New Zealand
Beyond solar, New Zealand plans a Fast-track Consent for Sustainable Buildings to halve approval times for projects with features like high energy efficiency or low-carbon materials. This shift supports climate goals and encourages more rooftop solar panels and innovative designs. For the solar industry, these changes reduce compliance costs and boost project flow, driving growth in New Zealand's renewable energy sector.
This reform marks a proactive move to support distributed energy and sustainable development in New Zealand.
Post time: Nov-07-2025