Photovoltaic (PV) solar systems are a rapidly growing industry in New Zealand, with the installation of both grid-connected and stand-alone systems.
WorkSafe recommends using a registered electrician to install PV systems. This is because homeowners installing a PV system themselves without the proper experience or knowledge could cause fires and electric shocks. And some PV systems are not suitable for New Zealand and should not be installed.
DIYers are limited to which PV systems they can install themselves lawfully by the voltage it uses. Systems that involve voltages exceeding 50V AC or 120V ripple-free DC require a registered electrician to install them. If parts of the PV system involve 230V terminations this also requires an electrician.