With fuel prices climbing as a result of conflict in the Middle East, electricity demand hitting record highs and power prices continuing to climb, there’s never been a better time to rethink how we power our homes, businesses and transport.
Ahead of the Electrify Nelson Expo, Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa and Kiwibank’s 2026 Sustainability Leader of the Year, shares why electrification makes sense, the role rooftop solar can play in New Zealand’s energy future, and why he’s optimistic more Kiwis are ready to make the switch.
A big thank you to Katy Jones and the Nelson Mail team for sitting down with Mike to capture his insights ahead of the Expo, taking place at the Annesbrook Event Centre on Saturday 29 August.
Why is electrification such a hot topic right now?
Mike Casey: “We’re going through a fuel crisis and households and businesses are struggling. We’ve also just seen record electricity demand and electricity prices continuing to rise. At the same time, the technology to electrify our homes and businesses has never been more affordable or efficient.”
“The exciting thing is that people can actually do something about it. Electrification isn’t just good for the environment – it’s a practical way to reduce household costs and improve energy resilience.”
Is rooftop solar now a good investment?
Mike Casey: “Absolutely. We’re now at a point where paying for solar by adding it to your mortgage is about a quarter of the price of grid electricity.”
“People who install rooftop solar today can save around $1,000 net each year on their power bills, regardless of where they live. That includes paying for the panels and the interest on a loan.”
“And because many banks now offer green loans at 0% or 1% interest, the savings on your electricity bill can often cover the loan repayments. The issue is that only around 20% of New Zealand households can access one of them. That’s where long-term, low-interest loans for electric upgrades through the Ratepayer Assistance Scheme come in and we’re excited to see many of the political parties back the idea.”
Why are so many people adding batteries and electrifying other parts of their homes?
Mike Casey: “Once people start generating their own electricity, it makes sense to use it.”
“Households often go on to install heat pump hot water systems, heat pumps, induction cooktops or buy electric vehicles because, quite simply, why would you use someone else’s energy when you can use your own? Solar is like having your own oil well and refinery on your roof and batteries offer peace of mind.”
How does this help New Zealand?
Mike Casey: “Around half of our total energy is imported and, as we’ve seen recently, it’s expensive and volatile. Electrifying our homes can save households thousands every year, communities millions and the country billions, while also improving energy security and reducing emissions.
“We need somewhere around 25–30% more electricity generation just to electrify the country’s vehicle fleet. Rooftop solar helps meet that challenge, because excess electricity from grid-connected systems flows back into the network when it’s not being used. It also helps keep water in the hydro lakes, which is crucial in a dry year. Batteries also remove homes from peaks, which reduces the need for expensive upgrades to the poles and wires that customers pay for on their bills.”
Australia seems to be much further ahead. Why?
Mike Casey: “Australia has embraced rooftop solar much more quickly, helped by government incentives. Now it’s doing the same with batteries.”
“But perhaps the biggest driver is social. The number one reason people in Australia install solar is because their neighbours do.”
“As more people adopt the technology, prices continue to fall and confidence grows.”
What can people expect at the Electrify Nelson Expo?
Mike Casey: “The Expo is designed to answer people’s questions without the sales pressure.”
“Whether you’re interested in solar, batteries, electric vehicles, heat pumps or simply understanding what electrification could look like for your home or business, you’ll be able to talk directly with experts, local suppliers and people who have already electrified their lives and are benefitting.”
“It’s about helping people make informed decisions and showing what’s already possible today.”
Electrify Nelson Expo takes place on Saturday 29 August at the Annesbrook Event Centre. Entry is free and visitors can explore around 30 stalls, expert speakers, live demonstrations, EV test drives and practical advice on everything from solar and batteries to home energy efficiency and electric transport.
