#THETIMEISNOW
To embrace sustainability. To battle climate change. To reset how this country is powered.
Our story
solarcity’s rich history as pioneers of innovation in solar energy development began in Christchurch in the 1970s, with the company’s early beginnings as Thermocell, a solar water heating company that was started by Professor Arthur Williamson and his colleagues from the University of Canterbury.
Under the guidance of founder Andy Booth, the company evolved to become New Zealand’s leading solar energy business with offices in Christchurch, Nelson and Auckland. Over the past 35+ years it has put more solar systems on Kiwi homes and businesses than any other company.
Driven by strong values and a mission to help Kiwis access smarter, cleaner energy, the company continues to innovate and deliver on the shared value of Kaitiakitanga - the Maori principle of guardianship. It’s a constant reminder we have a duty of care to look after our place, our people and the generations to follow.
A cleaner, brighter New Zealand
We are on a mission to accelerate New Zealand’s transition to be 100% renewable and lower the cost of energy for Kiwis.
This mission is aligned to New Zealand’s target of 100% renewable electricity generation by 2035 and carbon neutrality by 2050. With the demand for electricity in New Zealand likely to double by 2050, greater capacity for additional renewable-sourced energy will be needed to achieve this target. This is where we come in.
NZ’s most trusted solar energy business
Founded in 1981.
38-years-old and counting.
Reputationally respected. Multiple awards for innovation and service.
More solar systems installed than any other solar provider.
carbonZero certified since 2010.
Trusted and admired by 7,700 kiwis.
In the Top 5 fastest growing green companies in NZ.
Our values
We are a proud mission-led kiwi business. As a green start-up it’s important for our culture that we live and breathe our values – and that they guide our actions day by day.
Our sustainable practices
We’re striving to reduce our impact on the environment – which includes 100% carbon neutrality in our operations.
Carbonzero certified
Since 2010, solarcity’s operations have been certified carbon zero by Toitū Envirocare
Carbon neutral hardware
After two years powering your home, the solarZero system will have generated the same amount of energy as was required to manufacture.
Green company
solarcity is recognized as one of the top-5 fastest-growing green companies in New Zealand.
Carbon credits
To achieve zero carbon certification we purchase carbon credits from local initiatives including the Hinewai Nature reserve.
Our EV fleet
After investing in our fully electric company vehicle, we are committed to replace all future retiring vehicles with electric or hybrid versions where possible.
Creating the GridforGood
Every customer is doing their bit in the fight against climate change and reducing carbon emissions in New Zealand.
4000+
Customers powering their home with cleaner, greener energy
3,000 Tonnes
Of carbon prevented from entering the atmosphere each year*
696,000
Number of trees you would need to plant to achieve these carbon savings
16.4GWh
Of solar energy generated by solarZero customers
*Based on the calculation of 15 tonnes of carbons savings per household over 20 years
Proudly partnering with brands committed to sustainable business
Our green credentials
We were the first solar company in the world to achieve Toitū carbonzero certification and are still the only solar energy services business in NZ with that green credential. Independently audited and respected worldwide, Toitū carbonzero is a significant endorsement of solarcity’s commitment to sustainability and the environment.
Along with being Toitū carbonzero certified we’re proud members of SEANZ (sustainable Electricity Association of New Zealand) the Sustainable Business Network and the EECA Gen Less initiative.
Toitū Carbon zero
SEANZ
EECA Gen LesS
Sustainable business network
Company milestones
1996
1997-2000
2008
2009
2010
A small team led by Professor Arthur Williamson invents NZ’s first solar heat pipe.
Introducing the solarZero team
Neil joined solarcity as its new CEO in November 2019, bringing his expertise in leading the success of some of New Zealand’s most iconic brands, such as Mitre 10, The Warehouse Group, Pumpkin Patch.
Matt joined solarcity in April 2020 and leads our financial and commercial performance. Matt’s former role was CFO at Oceania Healthcare. He brings a background in capital markets and banking, including Macquarie Bank.
Gareth leads the development of our solarZero platform that provides services to homeowners, business owners and lines companies.
solarZero is the nation’s leading solar energy services company and a proud member of SEANZ. Over the past 35+ years it has put more solar systems on Kiwi homes and businesses than any other company. It was the first solar company in the world to achieve Toitū carbonzero certification and is still the only solar energy services business in NZ with that green credential. solarZero is one of the fastest-growing green companies in New Zealand and is one of the Government’s Focus 500 companies that are targeted to contribute significant benefits to the New Zealand economy.