OG About Text
Ref.: https://www.off-grid.nz/about/
Passionate about making off-grid solar a viable alternative to mains power, we are a small, innovative enterprise that challenges the established players. We draw on a unique supply chain and have developed our own modules, enabling us to create solutions that are rarely seen in the solar industry. We are technicians and idealists, believing in authenticity and blank information rather than beautiful marketing and shopping experiences. There is no photoshop or other manipulation to generate a sales pitch. Its not that we cannot do – its just not a priority.
We design and engineer each system around the customer’s needs, installing components in off-the-shelf sheds or wherever they are best suited. We understand solar technology from the ground up and think beyond individual components. Our designs achieves long service life by looking at ventilation, safety, maintainability and overall system performance. New Zealand compliance is our baseline; delivering the best long-term value is our goal.
We operate from a lifestyle block near Christchurch, where we have the space and freedom to test new products until they perform at their best. Our focus is to bring as much manufacturing as possible in-house, while standardising the elements that can be standardised—without compromising the customisation that makes each system effective.
One result of this approach is our Plug’n’Free (PnF) range: portable, plug-and-play energy systems designed for simple deployment. We have developed systems reaching 50 kW and beyond. When installation and electrical costs are taken into account, PnF systems can offer a more capable and cost-effective alternative to conventional solutions.
We have also developed a cutting-edge online communications and monitoring platform that sets a new benchmark for solar-system management. In 2026, we will launch the new SCM module family, enabling two-way, computerised communication between appliances and power-generation systems. By automatically coordinating energy generation and consumption, SCM can significantly increase the usable output of a system without increasing its physical size.
SCM will also enable microgrids linking multiple SCM-ready systems, including our PnF products. Communities will be able to share energy locally, buying and selling power directly between connected systems. In effect, you can say, “Plug off Meridian”—or any other power company—and build a more resilient, locally powered energy network with your neighbours.