Generate solar power that’s better for you, better for your wallet – and better for the planet – with Wānaka's most trusted solar experts.
Save money and protect yourself from rising prices by using free power from the sun and selling any excess back to the grid.
Generate clean, endlessly renewable energy that reduces your carbon footprint, and helps protect our planet.
Become more self-sufficient, protect yourself from power outages and use all the power you want, guilt-free.
From family homes to farm buildings – even remote high-country huts – Wānaka Solar specialises in designing and installing solar systems for homes and businesses, off-grid setups, and battery storage.
Cut your energy bills, cut your carbon footprint and feel good knowing your home is powered by clean, renewable solar power.
Reduce operating costs and show your commitment to sustainability. Perfect for schools, farms, and factories using daytime power.
Power your paradise. Off-grid systems are perfect for remote areas where access to the electricity grid is expensive or non-existent.
Say goodbye to power cuts for good and maximise your dollar savings by storing solar energy to use at night and during peak pricing.
Whether you're looking at solar for your home or business, the fundamentals are the same. Learn the basics of solar before you dive into the detail.
Solar panels are usually mounted on the roof. Sunlight hits solar cells, where its energy is converted into DC electrical energy.
More info.The inverter converts solar generated DC electricity into AC that can be used in the household. The inverter also monitors your solar system to ensure it performs as its best.
More info.Energy flows through your home's switchboard and is distributed to your appliances accordingly.
The energy your solar system produces will always be used first. If you produce more than you need, surplus is sold back to the grid automatically.
A solar system can be expanded with a battery. Batteries store surplus energy to be used at night or through power cuts.
More info.Your solar system can come with on line monitoring software so you can use an app or web to monitor your production and usage in real-time.
David and Wendy had solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall installed by Wānaka Solar, he talks about the experience of installing solar and how it has performed.
See our Google Reviews to read about our customers’ experiences with Wānaka Solar.
Back in the early 2010s, good solar wasn’t a given. Panels weren’t always installed for peak performance, limiting their effectiveness. Our founder, Dean Dunning, saw an opportunity to change that. With a background in electrical work and a drive to get the best results, he launched Wānaka Solar in 2015, focused on expert design and high-quality installations suited to local conditions. Not long after, his partner Sam—also from the electrical industry—joined the journey to help grow the business. As solar gained momentum, she played a key role in shaping the company and now leads the accounts team across the wider Think Solar Group. Since then, we’ve helped hundreds of homes and businesses—from Haast to St Bathans and everywhere in between—turn empty roofs into solar powerhouses.
We’re locally owned and our in-house team lives, plays and works in Wānaka.
Dean
Founder | Electrician
Trained as an electrician, going on to study renewable energy. Dean became increasingly concerned about the quality of solar installations being installed by untrained people. He managed to find a great team to help him install high-end renewable systems. Dean enjoys getting out rock climbing and spending time with Sam, when she isn't walking the dogs.
Hannah
General Manager
Hannah is the powerhouse behind Wānaka Solar, keeping everything running like a well-oiled machine. As the ultimate 'mother hen' to her team of installers, she looks after them - but don’t be fooled, she’s also the one cracking the whip. Known for her no-nonsense efficiency, Hannah is an absolute taskmaster, earning her the nickname Hurricane Hannah.
Gabby
Operations Coordinator
Gabby came from a hospitality background. We knew straight away that she would be a perfect fit for the office crew and that’s not just because she can make good coffee or take out first position in a board game. Gabby is your go to for any general enquiries and installation updates. When Gabby isn’t learning the world of Solar PV she is pitched on a remote location in her rooftop camper, working on her latest sewing creation.
Sam
Accounts Manager
Sam is our go to for all things accounts, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. When she’s not crunching numbers, you’ll find her in the garden, enjoying the outdoors with her son, Chester, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen. She loves paddleboarding and making the most of the stunning lakes.
Joe
Sales Admin Assistant
Joe has recently relocated from the UK to New Zealand and brings with him a love for the outdoors and renewables. Having traveled most of New Zealand on his motorbike, along with a passion for skiing and tramping, it’s no surprise that he has found a home in Wānaka. With a degree in Environmental Science, Joe’s dedication to sustainability aligns perfectly with his role as our Sales Admin Assistant.
Hector
Solar Installer
Originally from Argentina, Hector googled "the first country to see the sunrise". Lucky for us, this led him to New Zealand. In his spare time, Hector enjoys competing in Jiu Jitsu and hiking in his new home. Hector's drive for self-development and interest in Solar motivated him to undertake an electrical apprenticeship with us. We are thrilled to have him as part of our solar installation team and excited to see him expand his knowledge in the electrical world.
Khieu
Solar Installer | Electrician
Khieu moved down from Auckland to embark on his next chapter in the solar industry with us. With a keen eye for detail and a strong focus on quality, he ensures every job is completed to the highest standard. Outside of work, he’s dedicated to his fitness, hitting the gym regularly and never missing his fortnightly haircut. A true outdoors enthusiast, he spends his weekends camping, hiking, and making the most of nature.
Gonzalo
Solar Installer
Gonzalo has recently relocated to Wānaka from Argentina and has quickly proven to be an asset to the team. A quick learner, he mastered English within just five months, starting from scratch! His infectious smile and positive energy make him a joy to work with, and his skills in roofwork are top-notch. Outside of work, Gonzalo is an avid mountain biker, adding to his all-around awesomeness!
Douglas
Solar Installer
Meet Douglas! Hailing all the way from Brazil, he’s here for his love of solar energy and has fully embraced the Wānaka lifestyle. Whether it’s skiing, hiking, or any outdoor adventure, Douglas is always up for the challenge. His resilience is unmatched—he endured an entire winter season living in a tent! But after our recent biblical rain in Wānaka 2024, he’s now enjoying the comforts of a house.
Toby
Solar Installer
Toby comes to us from the one and only "Tron"—Hamilton for all the non-Kiwis! With a warm smile and a can-do attitude, he’s a fantastic addition to the team. After spending recent winters working as a ski mechanic, Toby is now excited to embark on a new journey in the solar industry.
Interested in a career in renewable energy? Learn more about working with us on our careers page.
We work with many of Wānaka’s best architects, engineers, builders and suppliers to ensure solar is seamlessly integrated into your project – from design to performance. If you’re building new, introducing us early ensures the best end result.
Take a look behind the scenes at our team in action on local installs.
Have a question about solar? Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to make the switch, our team is here to chat. Reach out by phone, email, or pop into the office – we’d love to hear from you!
Address
4c Endeavour Street
Wānaka
9305
Phone
034431002Ready to make the switch? Get a free, no-obligation quote today!
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