Here comes the sun - Solar technology from MeridianSolar cuts energy costs

Just as sustainability is now a key focus for both designers and homeowners, so has solar technology come of age.

Once perceived as a cottage industry with high associated costs, today solar technology is commonplace and affordable. And an increasing number of households are substantially reducing energy costs, thanks to a key initiative by Meridian Energy and SolarCity.

MeridianSolar is a joint venture by these two companies, with the aim at helping New Zealanders reduce their overall reliance on traditional energy sources.

SolarCity head of sales and marketing Jamie Fear says the MeridianSolar partnership is focused on making solar energy more affordable for its customers so they can make smart choices that save energy, money and the environment.

"Many New Zealanders are already enjoying the benefits of passive solar design, with well-insulated, double-glazed homes oriented to the sun in winter. Now they can benefit from active technology."

SolarCity supplies and installs solar water heating technology and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that generate electricity for household use. Fear says excess electricity can be sold to energy suppliers new systems make this a lot more efficient than in the past.

At present, solar water heating systems make up the majority of installations, with good reason.

"Solar water heating gives homeowners the equivalent of a week's free power every month," says Fear.

As well as heating water for general household use, solar water heating can be used to heat a swimming pool.

To help you see just how much energy you are saving, MeridianSolar has an online monitoring system. SolarTrak is a smart software platform that is able to continuously monitor a system's performance to ensure it is delivering the best possible savings.

Fear says SolarCity is the first CarboNZero-accredited solar power company. Over the past 30 years, the company has installed more than 10,000 solar heating systems the majority of all systems installed in New Zealand.

"There have been many changes in solar technology over this time," says Fear. "And it's not just about the increased efficiency the new systems are also more aesthetically pleasing. Panels can be integrated into the roof or incorporated into skylights for a streamlined look."

To contact MeridianSolar, phone 0800 0800 00 or SolarCity, phone 0508 853 853. Websites: www.solarcity.co.nz or www.meridian.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas