Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 2, New Zealand has eliminated the requirement for building consent to install rooftop solar on any structure, under new rules aimed at simplifying deployment while ensuring compliance with the Building Code. The reform was introduced by NZ Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk, who described it as a “common sense” measure addressing inconsistent consent requirements among local councils, which previously created uncertainty for homeowners and installers.

“Making the process simpler by removing burdensome red tape is expected to save Kiwis around NZD 1,060 ($688) per consent and help avoid unnecessary delays,” Penk said. He emphasized that installations must still be carefully managed and meet code standards. For rooftop arrays exceeding 40 square meters per roof or in very high wind zones, a chartered professional engineer must provide or review the structural fixings for the exemption to apply. “Most residential rooftop solar arrays are between 25 and 30 square meters, so the majority of households will be able to install their solar panels without involving an engineer,” Penk added.

In addition, Penk plans to expand a rooftop solar incentive introduced earlier in 2025, which fast-tracked building consents for new residential buildings incorporating solar generation, reducing processing time from 20 to 10 working days. The extension will cover sustainable buildings, which must meet performance criteria demonstrating high energy efficiency, water efficiency, low embodied carbon, or climate resilience.

“Legislation to create a fast-track building consent process for sustainable buildings, including those with solar panels, will be included in a Bill I intend to introduce to Parliament early next year,” Penk said. He explained that the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will set performance criteria for each sustainable building attribute through secondary legislation, providing clear guidance for builders and developers. “By accelerating rooftop solar generation and reducing regulatory barriers for sustainable buildings, we are helping Kiwis shrink their power bills and live in healthier homes,” Penk added.

The rollout of the fast-track building consent process will begin with rooftop solar installations, with uptake and system impacts closely monitored before expanding the process to other sustainable buildings. This approach aims to streamline installation, encourage renewable energy adoption, and support the broader goal of improving energy efficiency and sustainability in New Zealand’s building sector.

Overall, the reforms simplify rooftop solar installation, save homeowners time and cost, and support the government’s objective of promoting cleaner, more sustainable energy use while maintaining safety and structural compliance.