Customers of SolarZero, a New Zealand solar power system leasing company, have expressed frustration over contract terms, with some facing unexpected costs. One customer, Mark Wellington, told RNZ he had been a customer for about four years and was shocked to learn he would need to pay around $30,000 to buy out his system if he wanted to sell his house. The contracts, typically spanning 20 years, require customers to pay a monthly lease fee while saving on power bills and exporting excess energy to the grid.
SolarZero, which has installed systems for thousands of households, offers a lease model where customers do not own the panels. However, complaints have emerged about the difficulty of transferring contracts to new homeowners or exiting early. Wellington stated that the buyout fee made it hard to sell his property, as potential buyers were reluctant to take over the lease. The company has defended its contracts, saying they are transparent and designed to provide long-term savings.
The issue highlights broader concerns about solar leasing agreements, which can lock customers into long-term commitments. Consumer advocates advise reading contracts carefully and considering resale implications. SolarZero has not commented on individual cases but says it works with customers to find solutions. As of July 2026, no regulatory action has been announced.
