Installing solar panels just got easier.
New building consent exemptions introduced by the Government in October 2025 mean that many solar panel installations on homes and commercial buildings will no longer require building consent. This is a step forward enabling more distributed renewable energy generation across Aotearoa.
DCC Manager Zero Carbon Jinty MacTavish says, “For most Dunedin homes, this means solar can now be installed faster, with fewer barriers, and at lower cost, helping more residents generate renewable power and reduce household expense in the long term.”
Over the past five years, Dunedin has seen a 281% increase in total installed solar capacity – giving a clear sign that more households and businesses are choosing to generate their own clean energy, Ms MacTavish says.
“That is a fantastic step in the right direction, and the changes introduced by government will make generating and using renewable energy more accessible for everyday New Zealanders.
“Rooftop solar lets people take control of their energy use. It’s a simple, practical way to cut costs and cut emissions at the same time - great for individual households and businesses, neighbourhood air quality, and global efforts to mitigate climate change.”
Dunedin City Council Acting Manager Building Services Mike Hart says the changes will remove some of the administrative and financial barriers for households and businesses wanting to invest in solar.
Previously, exemptions only covered ground-mounted solar arrays, but the new approach extends this to include rooftop systems on both residential and commercial buildings and streamlines the process for installing them without needing a building consent.
Summary of solar panel exemptions:
- Roof-mounted solar panels (under 40m²) – no building consent required unless in very high wind zones.
- Roof-mounted solar panels (over 40m² or in high wind zones) – no building consent required if a Chartered Professional Engineer designs or reviews the system.
- Ground-mounted solar panels (under 40m² in urban areas and unlimited size in rural areas) – already exempt under existing rules if all criterial are met.
“Even with this change, it’s still important to check the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)’s guidance to make sure your installation meets all the exemption criteria.
“You will also need to check district planning rules, electrical regulations, and site conditions to ensure full compliance.”