Solar panels in a grid

Transforming Assets into Powerhouses

Innovation meets responsibility. At Project51 our Distributed Solar Powerstations are not just about harnessing sunlight; they're about redefining how we power progress.
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Project51 partners strategically with key players in Aotearoa's commercial and rural property sectors. Our mission? Transforming unused roof & land assets into powerhouses to offset environmental impact while creating an additional revenue stream for property owners.
In the ever-evolving Kiwi energy sector, consumer demand for renewables is surging, yet large-scale solar uptake lags. Project51 addresses this gap, handling the entire process—design, procurement, project delivery, operation, and maintenance of commercial installations. Through savvy agreements with asset owners, we not only enhance sustainability but ensure a steady revenue flow, aligning financial gains with eco-friendly choices.

How it works

Project51 partners with large-scale commercial roof or land owners to install solar power generation equipment. Solar panels convert sunlight into DC electricity, and inverters then transform it into a 240v AC supply. The generated electricity is fed back into the local electricity network.
Electricity meters distinctly separate Project51's power generation from building consumption ensuring transparency and account separation while relationships with electricity retailers can also remain independent.
Project51 maintains ownership of the solar installation while providing the asset owner with an ongoing revenue stream for the use of their otherwise unproductive roof or land space.

FAQ's

Who owns the equipment?
  • Project51 own the equipment for an agreed period –
  • Businesses operating from commercial buildings may not be the building owner and while wanting to offset their environmental impact, may not be in a position to commit to assets with a 30 year design life when their own lease periods are considerably shorter
  • Installing large scale solar is an expensive process, asset owners may want some additional revenue without the complexity and expense that comes with it. Effectively the roof or land space becomes another leased income earner
  • Project51 has in-house engineering expertise and experience managing assets making for seamless integration and operation
How long does the equipment last?
  • Typical design life is estimated at 30 years however there are some system components within this that will require periodic replacement through the life of the installation
Does Project51 require ongoing access to assets?
  • Once equipment is installed, Project51 will monitor system performance remotely however periodic access and inspection of systems will be required. Access will be coordinated with all parties to ensure land owners and tenants (if different entities) are happy with timings
Is my site/asset suitable?
  • Large agriculture buildings and large commercial buildings with a roof space of 500m2 or greater
  • Site network supplies will limit the potential solar installation capacity and affect project feasibility. Project51 will need to investigate if your electrical supplies accommodate a solar installation of this type
  • For new builds, If Project51 is involved in the building design phase and material specification, materials can be selected upfront to better facilitate solar installations
  • Project51 will complete building loading assessments to ensure the building is suitable
Will the installation impact on the asset or tennant business continuity?
  • Project51 has sourced equipment that meets stringent AS/NZ standards and have personally visited the manufacturing sites to ensure products are suitable. Business continuity and asset well-being are at the forefront of Project51 systems and processes. In the event of a loss of solar supply, grid connection still remains and should not affect the operating business electricity supply

Our Team

The directors at Project51 have devoted their careers to the electricity industry, serving electricity generation asset owners in electrical and mechanical engineering, project management, maintenance and operations. With over 50 years of combined experience in the field, Project51 is committed to leveraging this wealth of knowledge for grassroots and innovative change.
Chris Elliott
Director‍
021 427 029
chris.elliott@project51.co.nz