knowledge article

Record-Breaking Power Price Hikes Coming This April - Here’s How to Beat Them

18/03/2025

Kiwis are bracing for the steepest power price hikes in over 20 years, with bills expected to surge by nearly 10% starting 1 April. Infometrics forecaster Gareth Kiernan told 1News that Mercury has already warned its customers of these increases, driven by rising wholesale energy costs and low hydro levels. This could lead to the largest price hikes since 2003-2004 if other companies follow suit.

What’s behind the price hikes?

New Zealand's energy sector is grappling with low hydro storage and rising costs for gas and coal as backup sources. The uncertainty around hydro levels means power prices could remain high throughout winter, leaving many Kiwis worried about how they’ll manage their bills.

Watch 1News report:

Why is now the best time to go solar?

With power prices soaring, switching to solar is a smart move to lock in significant long-term savings - the earlier you go solar, the quicker and more savings you make.

Going solar allows you to generate your own electricity, gain energy independence and slash your power bills. Even on cloudy days (as solar runs on “daylight”, not “sunlight”), solar panels can generate electricity, helping you avoid peak rates. Plus, you can earn credits for any excess power you send back to the grid.

How much could you save with solar?

A typical solar system can save you thousands each year, though the exact savings depend on its size. Over a 25-year lifespan, this can add up to tens of thousands in savings. See pricing and savings

Harrisons Solar offers an exclusive buy-back rate of 18c per unit (NZ's highest) - so you can turn that extra energy into additional savings. Also, If you plan to sell your home, investing in a quality solar system can increase your home’s value by an average of 4.4% or more.

How to optimise your solar system for better savings:

1. Use power when the sun is shining: Operate high-energy appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during daylight hours to use the electricity your solar panels generate. 

2. Monitor usage with smart technology: Track real-time solar production and energy consumption with Fronius Solar.Web monitoring or the Tesla app for battery storage insights, helping you optimise energy use and maximise savings. Learn more

Why choose Harrisons Solar?

  • NZ’s #1 Most Trusted Solar Brand: Voted by Kiwis for three years running.
  • Best price promise: Get top-quality solar technology at the best price
  • 0% interest financing
  • Exclusive buy-back rates: The highest in NZ at 18c per unit
  • Premium solar solutions: We provide world-leading solar technology so you can maximise your system’s performance
  • Seamless installation: Our expert team makes the switch to solar easy and stress-free. We handle the entire process for you

We come to you: Harrisons offers a FREE, in-home consultation with no obligation, making it simple to explore your options. Our experts will design and price a solar system tailored to your energy needs and budget.

Slash your power bill - lock in savings now!

With power prices predicted to keep climbing, the best time to go solar is right now. Don’t wait for power prices to skyrocket even further. Book your FREE in-home consultation today and discover how much you could save with Harrisons Solar - NZ’s most trusted solar brand!

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