Key takeaways
- SolarZero ran a subscription model with no upfront cost and contracts of up to 25 years.
- It entered liquidation in December 2024; servicing moved to Verofi.
- Consumer NZ said customers couldn't cancel just because the provider changed.
- Owning the system and paying the balance only after it's certified limits what you lose if an installer fails.
What happened with SolarZero
SolarZero offered solar and batteries on subscription: no upfront payment, then long-term monthly payments, some over 25 years. Consumer NZ reported on 6 December 2024 that it had entered liquidation, and that servicing would continue through a company called Verofi.
Consumer NZ advised customers that there was no need to do anything at that stage, and that contracts could only be ended in specific circumstances, not simply because the service provider changed (Consumer NZ). One customer told RNZ the system "feels like a liability on the roof now".
Buying versus subscribing
Buying costs more upfront but you own the panels, choose your retailer, and keep the full saving once it's paid off. A subscription spreads the cost but the provider owns or controls the system, the saving is shared, and you depend on that company for decades.
| Buy outright | Green loan top-up | Subscription or lease | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Full price | Little or none | None |
| Who owns it | You | You | Usually the provider |
| Saving | All yours | All yours, less interest | Shared with the provider |
| If the company fails | Warranty risk only | Warranty risk only | Contract and service risk |
| Selling your house | System goes with it | Loan is part of your mortgage | Contract must transfer or end |
How to protect yourself when you buy
Pay a modest deposit, keep the balance until the system is commissioned and certified, get product warranties from the manufacturers (not just the installer), and keep your certificates and monitoring login.
- Deposit within EECA's typical 10% to 30%, not the full price upfront
- Balance after commissioning and certification
- Manufacturer warranties registered in your name
- Copies of the electrical certificates and the lines-company approval
Frequently asked questions
What happened to SolarZero?
It entered liquidation in December 2024. Consumer NZ reported that servicing continued through Verofi.
Is leasing solar a good idea in NZ?
It avoids the upfront cost, but you share the saving and depend on the provider for the length of the contract. A green loan top-up often gives ownership at a low rate.
Can I get out of a solar subscription?
Only on the terms in the contract. Consumer NZ noted SolarZero contracts couldn't be cancelled just because the provider changed.
What if my solar installer goes out of business?
Manufacturer product warranties usually still apply; the workmanship warranty may not. Ask for product warranties to be registered in your name, which is what we do.
Sources
- Consumer NZ, SolarZero liquidation: what to do if you're a customer (6 Dec 2024) (checked Dec 2024)
- RNZ, SolarZero in liquidation: 'feels like a liability on the roof now' (checked Dec 2024)
- EECA, Solar quotes and installation (checked Sept 2026)
- Solar Scout, Solar grants and incentives NZ (updated 21 Aug 2026) (checked 21 Aug 2026)
General information, not financial advice. Prices and rates change; each figure shows where it came from and when it was checked.