Week 3: Honest Drawbacks of Solar — What to Watch Out For

Welcome to Week 3 of the Zero Carbon Solar Education Series! At Zero Carbon Solar, we believe in full transparency. This week, we're covering the honest drawbacks and considerations of going solar.

1. Upfront Installation Cost

A typical residential solar system in New Zealand costs between $8,000 and $20,000 depending on size and whether you include battery storage. While the long-term savings are significant, the upfront investment can be a barrier. Payback periods typically range from 5–10 years.

2. Weather Dependency

Solar panels produce less electricity on cloudy or rainy days. New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the South Island and Wellington region. However, modern panels still generate power in diffuse light — just at reduced efficiency.

3. Roof Suitability

Not all roofs are ideal for solar. Factors that affect suitability include: roof orientation (north-facing is best in NZ), roof pitch, shading from trees or neighbouring buildings, and the structural integrity of the roof. A professional assessment is essential before installation.

4. Maintenance Requirements

Solar panels are generally low-maintenance, but they do require occasional cleaning and periodic professional inspections. Inverters typically need replacement after 10–15 years, which is an additional cost to factor in.

5. Battery Storage Adds Cost

While battery storage dramatically increases the value of a solar system, it also adds $8,000–$15,000 to the installation cost. For some households, a grid-tied system without batteries may offer better value.

6. Renters and Body Corporates

If you rent your home or live in an apartment, installing solar is typically not an option without landlord or body corporate approval. Community solar schemes are emerging in New Zealand but are still limited.

Next week, we'll bring it all together — helping you decide whether solar is the right choice for your specific situation.