Running a farm or orchard isn’t easy. Power bills keep rising, margins are tight, and many rural businesses face the challenge of keeping pumps, sheds, and cool stores running reliably.
That’s why the government has launched the Solar on Farms NZ funding programme designed to help farmers and growers install solar + battery systems and cut costs. This is your chance to reduce energy bills, boost resilience, and future-proof your business.
👉 Learn more about the programme here
What is the Solar on Farms NZ programme?
The initiative supports 40 demonstration farms across New Zealand by funding part of the cost of installing solar and battery systems. The goal is to help farmers cut costs, reduce emissions, and share real-world results with the sector.
Here’s what’s on offer:
- Up to 40% funding for batteries and inverters
- Up to 20% funding for solar panels and arrays
- Systems sized from 30kWp to 500kWp
- Available for all farm types, dairy, sheep & beef, cropping, horticulture
- Limited to 40 farms nationwide
Why solar makes sense on the farm
Solar isn’t just about lowering bills it’s about building strength into your business. For farmers and growers, solar + battery systems can deliver:
✅ Lower operating costs – power pumps, sheds, and cool stores with free solar energy
✅ Resilience – batteries keep operations running during outages
✅ Future-proofing – protect against rising energy costs and regulations
✅ Leadership – farms chosen become demonstration sites for the wider industry
For more details on how solar works in the rural sector, see our Solar Installations page.
How 2E Electrical can help
At 2E Electrical, we specialise in rural and commercial solar installations across the Waikato. We know farm environments and how to build systems that are tough, reliable, and deliver long-term savings.
Here’s how we can support your journey:
- Site & usage assessment – review your current energy use and identify solar opportunities.
- System design & quote – tailored to your sheds, pumps, and farm operations.
- Funding application support – help with the EECA paperwork and requirements.
- Installation & service – fully certified, maintained, and built to last.
We’ve already helped farmers cut power costs with solar, and we’re ready to guide you through the process too.
Act fast places are limited
Only 40 farms nationwide will be selected. If you’re a farmer or grower and want to take advantage of solar on farms NZ funding, now is the time to act.
📞 Call us today on 0800 233 532
🌐 Visit www.2eelectrical.co.nz
💬 Or message us directly to get started
FAQs about Solar on Farms NZ
Who can apply for Solar on Farms funding in NZ?
Farmers and growers of all types, dairy, sheep & beef, cropping, horticulture can apply if they meet the system size and battery requirements.
How much funding can farmers get?
Up to 40% of inverter and battery costs, and up to 20% of solar panel costs.
How many farms will be selected?
Only 40 demonstration farms nationwide will receive funding.
Is solar worth it for dairy farms in Waikato?
Yes. High daily energy use (pumps, sheds, refrigeration) makes solar a smart investment, especially with battery backup.
Final word
This is a rare chance to access government support for solar and batteries on your farm. It’s not just about saving money it’s about making your farm stronger, more resilient, and future ready.
👉 Start your Solar on Farms application with 2E Electrical today
