Residential and Small to Medium-scale Solar Sector Review Survey

Overview

We are reviewing the rules that apply to residential and small to medium‑scale solar installations in New Zealand. Installing solar can help households and businesses save money, but the process can be slow and complex, with multiple steps, organisations, and approvals involved. 

We want to understand how the solar installation process works in practice – from first enquiry through to installation, connection, and metering. We are interested in hearing from consumers, businesses, and others involved in the sector about their experiences. This includes what works well, where there are delays or difficulties, and how different parts of the process fit together. 

Your feedback will help identify where requirements may be adding unnecessary cost, delay, or complexity, and where improvements could be made. This will inform advice on how the process could be made simpler, more consistent, and easier to navigate while maintaining appropriate safety and system performance.

The scope of the Review is available in the terms of reference: Terms of Reference for the Residential and Small and Medium-Scale Solar Sector Review | Ministry for Regulation

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help identify where requirements may be adding unnecessary cost, delay, or complexity, and where improvements could be made. This will inform advice on how the process could be made simpler, more consistent, and easier to navigate while maintaining appropriate safety and system performance.

What to expect  

The form should take 5 - 10 minutes to complete, depending on how much detail you choose to provide. 

If you wish to take part, please complete this survey by 5pm on Friday 29 May 2026. If you have any questions regarding this survey, please get in touch with the Review team by emailing solarenergyregulatoryreview@regulation.govt.nz