Ken Nelson
Whangārei · 2 people, 160 m² · Solar
The technology is very cool.
$1,860 saved per year
What's in your electric home?
In addition to the solar on our roof, we use a solar-powered water heater, a modern electric stove and oven, and standard appliances like our dishwasher and washing machine.
When did you start, and why?
We're new on our journey, having gotten started in October 2025. Our motivation was two-fold: trying to reduce cost and concern for the environment.
How much have you saved?
It is still a bit too soon to tell, but the initial monthly impact is promising. Before electrifying, our monthly home bills were $200. Now, they have dropped to just $45 per month—a reduction of over 75%.
What do you love most about it?
The technology is very cool. I enjoy being able to monitor the power we create in real-time and seeing exactly how much energy we are using at any given moment.
How has it changed your behaviour?
It's made us more conscious of the "solar day". We now try to operate our appliances only during daylight hours to make the most of the energy coming directly from our roof.
Any advice?
Quite simply, solar makes a lot of sense.
Solar: 6.3 kW, 18 panels
Vehicles: 1x ICE