Published: 11 June 2026
Solar panels will be installed at Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness Centre to reduce operating costs.
The installation will cost approximately $881,000 and will be funded by the underspend from the original construction, which came in under budget.
The solar panels are expected to bring three main benefits:
- Lower power bills, with savings estimated at about $95,000 a year
- Lower emissions, with savings estimated at about 30 tonnes of CO2 a year
- Better value from a community building that will be used for many years
Council’s Neighbourhoods & Communities Director Andrea Blackshaw says the solar installation is a practical step that makes good use of money already set aside for the pool.
“Te Ngaengae Pool is one of the jewels in Lower Hutt’s crown and is well-used by residents right across the city and aquatic sports across the region, so it makes sense to make it as efficient as possible.
“Pools use a lot of power for heating, lighting and running equipment. Solar power will help reduce those costs over time, while also lowering emissions.
“The pool was designed with solar in mind, and it was always intended to add it to the facility if it could be afforded. Given the current financial challenges facing Council and community, it’s critical that we run our buildings as efficiently as possible, manage costs and support a more sustainable city.”
The final size and design of the solar system will be confirmed once Council has selected a supplier through a procurement process now underway.
Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness Centre opened in December 2024. It was designed with sustainability in mind and achieved a Green Star Five rating, a high standard for environmentally friendly buildings. The new solar panels will build on that strong foundation.
Installation is expected to take place between September and November 2026.
Council has already installed solar panels at the Silverstream Landfill offices. Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness Centre will be its first large solar project.