Hāwea Solar Collective
Hāwea Solar Collective
Building resilience with solar—together
Building resilience with solar—together
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The Hāwea Solar Collective is a community initiative established by the Hāwea Community Resilience Group to help more homes become energy self-sufficient. More homes with solar and battery storage means fewer households dependent on outside help during a power outage — reducing pressure on the community response and on CRG volunteers during an emergency. Households with power can also provide practical assistance to neighbours who are without — whether that is charging devices, refrigerating medications, or simply providing light and warmth.
The Collective helps local households access trusted, independent information about solar energy and makes it more affordable through collective action. By bringing neighbours together, we enable better pricing, simplify the process, and support more homes to become energy resilient. The CRG has engaged a local qualified electrician to work with participating households, providing independent advice and installation services.
Our goal is to strengthen our community so that, over time, more homes can stay powered during outages and emergencies — building a more prepared, self-reliant Hāwea for the future.
Interested to learn more -- hello@haweacrg.nz
Powering a more resilient Hāwea
Powering a more resilient Hāwea
Independent, trusted guidance – We provide clear, unbiased information on solar with no financial interest in the outcome.
Better pricing through group action – By bringing neighbours together, we unlock more competitive pricing from installers.
Simple, supported process – We help coordinate small groups, making it easier for households to move forward with confidence.
Stronger community resilience — more solar-powered homes means greater ability to stay powered during outages and emergencies, as part of a broader vision for a more self-reliant Hāwea.
Resilience Requires Batteries
Resilience Requires Batteries
Solar panels generate power during the day, but true resilience comes from being able to store and use that energy when it’s needed most—especially during outages or emergencies. Batteries allow homes to remain powered after sunset or when the grid goes down, providing continuity for essential appliances and greater peace of mind. By combining solar with battery storage, households can take a meaningful step toward energy independence and help build a more resilient community overall.
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) is the government agency supporting New Zealand's transition to clean energy
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) is the government agency supporting New Zealand's transition to clean energy
Last reviewed: May 2026.
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