Fact sheets and brochures

Photovoltaics can generate electricity for your home or business, either as part of a stand-alone power system, or for buildings already connected to the local electricity network.

The term ‘photovoltaic' means ‘light - electricity'. A photovoltaic system (known as PV or solar electric system) converts radiant energy from the sun directly into electricity.

New Zealand has one of the best wind resources in the world. Small wind turbines can be a good way to generate some of your electricity needs, particularly as part of a 'stand-alone' power system or in rural situations.

Currently, the electricity generated by small-scale wind turbines is considerably more expensive to produce than buying electricity from the national grid.

Generally, small wind turbines are best suited to rural settings that are exposed to strong and consistent winds, and where there is no connection to the electricity network or grid.

There's no better time to think about energy efficiency than when you're building or
renovating. It is when you can go back to the drawing board to really incorporate energy
efficiency into your design.

For little or no extra cost, you can create a home that's warmer, more comfortable and more
cost-effective to run for years to come - and you don't have to compromise on style to do it.

Designing for energy efficiency also means your home will use less of the world's energy
resources, so you'll leave a better legacy for generations to come.