New Building Act Changes: No Consent Needed For Most Solar Panel Installations

 Removing barriers to solar panel installation is set to make it easier for Kiwis to switch to clean, renewable energy. Recent changes to the Building Act mean many rooftop solar installations no longer require a building consent, reducing both cost and complexity for homeowners and businesses. 

The new rules, which came into effect last month, exempt most roof-mounted solar panel installations under 40 m² from needing a building consent. This applies to existing homes and commercial buildings unless they are located in very high-wind zones. For larger arrays or installations in high-wind zones, a chartered professional engineer must review or provide the design for the structural fixings in order for the exemption to apply.

Official guidance from the New Zealand government also outlines requirements for ground-mounted solar arrays and other details about exemptions for building consents. You can read the full guidance here: Notes for Ground-Mounted Solar Panel Arrays

James Kettle, Managing Director of Dunedin Solar, says the changes are “a good move” for the solar industry and could accelerate adoption across New Zealand.

“A lot more companies are going solar, and there’s still huge potential for growth,” he said. “Removing some of the barriers will definitely speed up that process. Most solar panel mounting systems already have engineering consent, so installing within that framework is safe and practical.”

While the new rules provide incentives, Kettle notes some homeowners may limit the size of their installations to stay under the 40 m² threshold, potentially reducing the overall scale of individual projects. Commercial installations, often covering larger roofs, will still require careful planning and professional input.

Local councils have described the changes as a step in the right direction, making it easier for Kiwis to generate and use renewable energy. For most homes and businesses, solar can now be installed faster, with fewer barriers and lower costs, helping more residents and companies produce their own clean power and reduce energy expenses.

Rooftop and ground-mounted solar panels allow New Zealanders to take control of their energy use. Solar is a practical way to lower household and business costs while reducing emissions, supporting cleaner air in neighbourhoods, and contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.

With Think Solar Group branches across the South Island, switching to solar has never been easier. Reach out to your local branch today to save on energy costs and invest in a cleaner, greener future.