Solar for Schools NZ:
The Solar Subsidy & Grant Guide
The Government's $30M Solar on Schools programme will fund solar and batteries for up to 500 NZ schools — at no cost to those selected. See how it works, whether you qualify, and how to go solar now if you're not on the list.
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What Is the Solar on Schools Programme?
Announced in Budget 2026, Solar on Schools is the largest solar grant New Zealand has ever offered the education sector. The $30 million programme will install rooftop solar panels and batteries on up to 500 schools across the country — and the schools selected pay nothing towards the cost.
It is delivered in partnership by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and the Ministry of Education. Up to 150 of those schools will also receive energy management systems to get the most out of their solar. The goal is simple: cut schools' power bills, free up money for teaching and learning, and make schools more resilient when the grid goes down.
For most schools this is the first realistic chance to go solar without dipping into their operations grant or property budget. Below we break down exactly how the funding works, who qualifies, and what to do if your school isn't on the first list.
How the $30 Million Solar Grant Is Funded
The fund combines two government sources to deliver solar at no cost to participating schools.
$20M — EECA Community Renewable Energy Fund
The bulk of the funding comes from EECA's Community Renewable Energy Fund (CREF), which co-funds renewable energy projects that benefit communities.
$10M — Ministry of Education
The Ministry of Education contributes $10 million and manages the school property side — site assessments, roof suitability, and opting schools into the programme.
$6.7M — Returned to Schools
Schools will be able to sell surplus electricity back to the grid — modelling estimates around $6.7 million in revenue across participating schools over 10 years.
Which Schools Qualify for the Solar Subsidy?
The Ministry of Education is prioritising schools that will benefit most. Your school is more likely to be selected if it meets one or more of these criteria.
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Energy or fuel insecurity
Schools that struggle with unreliable or expensive energy supply are prioritised first.
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Higher than average energy costs
Schools with large power bills stand to save the most and rank higher for funding.
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Planned gas or diesel boiler replacement
Schools due to replace fossil-fuel boilers can switch to cleaner, cheaper electric heating backed by solar.
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A need for greater resilience
Schools that could serve their community during emergencies are favoured.
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Suitable roof space
A north-facing, structurally sound roof with room for a ~30kW array improves your chances.
Selected schools fitted with solar and battery storage can also act as neighbourhood lifelines during severe weather or natural disasters — keeping emergency lighting, heating and essential services running when the local grid fails.
When Will Schools Get Solar Panels?
The programme is delivered in phases from 2026 to 2028.
2026: First Contact
Ministry property staff contact the first 80–100 schools to confirm interest and arrange site assessments.
2026/27: First Installs
80–100 schools have solar installed over the summer holidays to avoid disruption to learning.
Programme Expands
More schools across the country are added as the rollout scales up nationally.
Up to 500 Schools
The full programme of up to 500 schools is complete, with up to 150 also receiving energy management systems.
Don't want to wait until 2028? Your school can start saving this year.
Get a Free School Solar AssessmentYour School Doesn't Have to Wait for the Grant
Only 80–100 schools go solar each year, and not every school will be selected. If your school wants the savings now, Sunshine Solar can help you go solar independently — with the same expertise behind the national programme.
Ministry-Ready Reports
We prepare the structural and electrical reports the Ministry of Education requires for any school solar installation.
Purchase or Lease Options
Buy outright from your property fund, or use a third-party-owned Energy Services Agreement so there's no upfront cost.
Business Case Support
We model your savings, payback and carbon reduction so your board of trustees can make a confident decision.
Why Schools Choose Sunshine Solar
22 years of New Zealand solar experience, with a track record in schools, councils and public facilities.
Two Decades of Experience
Established in 2004, we've completed 8,000+ installations and 12 nationally recognised awards. Schools deal with a proven, stable NZ company — not a fly-by-night installer.
Public Sector Track Record
We've delivered solar for councils, aquatic centres and care facilities — we understand procurement, board approvals and reporting. See our public sector work.
Installed Around the School Year
We schedule work during term breaks and weekends with full health-and-safety management plans, so there's no disruption to students or staff.
25-Year Warranties
Tier-1 panels with 25-year performance warranties and ongoing maintenance agreements protect the school's asset for decades.
A Living Classroom on the Roof
Beyond cutting power bills, school solar gives students a real-world example of renewable energy in action. Real-time generation displays turn the system into a teaching tool for science, sustainability and STEM — and show your community the school is leading on climate.
Paired with battery storage, your school can also become a community lifeline during storms and outages, keeping the lights and heating on for students and neighbours when it matters most.
Solar on Schools: Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a government subsidy for solar panels on schools in New Zealand?
How much does the Solar on Schools programme cost my school?
How much can a school save with solar panels?
Which schools are eligible for the solar grant?
What if my school is not selected for the programme?
When will solar panels be installed on schools?
How do schools opt in to the programme?
Thinking About Solar for Your School?
Whether you've been contacted about the Solar on Schools programme or want to explore going solar on your own terms, our schools team will give you clear, honest advice — with no obligation.
582 Buchanans Road, Christchurch 7676 • Monday–Friday 8am–5pm