Greg & Sue
Nelson · 2 people, 160 m² · Battery, EV, EV charger, Heat pump, Induction cooking, Solar
We are completely energy positive, generating more power than we use.
$3,500 saved per year (estimated cost avoided, always been all-electric)
What's in your electric home?
For energy generation and storage, we have a 10kW rooftop solar system (with the capacity to upgrade to 18kW), 12kWh of battery storage, and three-phase power. In the garage, we have a 62kWh Nissan Leaf charged by a smart EV charger, and a hybrid RAV4 for off-road trips.
Inside, we have a Stiebel Elton heat recovery and ventilation system, a Sanden heat pump for hot water (with an inline instantaneous booster), a heat pump in the living area, infrared panels in the bathrooms, and an all-electric kitchen with an induction cooktop.
When did you start, and why?
We were early adopters for our previous home in Australia. When we moved to New Zealand to build a new house, making it all-electric from the start was a no-brainer. Our motivation has always been a combination of environmental responsibility, long-term affordability, and wanting to pay less for energy!
How much have you saved?
Because our house has always been all-electric, it's hard to compare. We estimate it would cost us around $3,500 per year. Instead, our electricity bill is in credit every single month, even during winter and with regular EV charging. We are completely energy positive, generating more power than we use. And determined to never give a power retailer the joy of sending us a bill.
Any advice?
When building a new home, going all-electric is a no-brainer, but make sure you get the right advice and work with tradespeople who understand and embrace your vision.
Solar: 10 kW, 25 panels
Battery: 12 kWh
Vehicles: 1x EV, 1x hybrid