Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aurora Solar - AI-powered platform for designing commercial solar systems, generating accurate proposals, and streamlining sales workflows.
- 2#2: HelioScope - High-speed PV design and optimization software tailored for large-scale commercial and utility solar proposals.
- 3#3: OpenSolar - Free, full-featured solar design and proposal software with financial modeling for commercial projects.
- 4#4: Energy Toolbase - Commercial solar project modeling platform for creating investment-grade proposals and financial analysis.
- 5#5: PVsyst - Industry-standard PV performance simulation software used to validate commercial solar proposals with detailed yield predictions.
- 6#6: PVcomplete - Automated electrical design and proposal generation tool for commercial solar installations.
- 7#7: Solargraf - 3D solar design software that produces professional proposals with photorealistic renders for commercial rooftops.
- 8#8: Sighten - AI-driven solar layout optimizer that accelerates commercial proposal creation with automated designs.
- 9#9: PV*SOL - Comprehensive PV simulation and design software for generating detailed commercial solar project proposals.
- 10#10: System Advisor Model (SAM) - Free techno-economic modeling tool from NREL for analyzing and supporting commercial solar financing proposals.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors including feature robustness (e.g., design precision, financial modeling), ease of use, simulation accuracy, and value for commercial-scale applications, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of solar professionals.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right commercial solar proposal software is key to efficient project documentation and client engagement; this comparison table features tools including Aurora Solar, HelioScope, OpenSolar, Energy Toolbase, PVsyst, and more, guiding readers to evaluate options based on features, pricing, and usability for their unique commercial solar needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aurora Solar AI-powered platform for designing commercial solar systems, generating accurate proposals, and streamlining sales workflows. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | HelioScope High-speed PV design and optimization software tailored for large-scale commercial and utility solar proposals. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | OpenSolar Free, full-featured solar design and proposal software with financial modeling for commercial projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 4 | Energy Toolbase Commercial solar project modeling platform for creating investment-grade proposals and financial analysis. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | PVsyst Industry-standard PV performance simulation software used to validate commercial solar proposals with detailed yield predictions. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 5.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | PVcomplete Automated electrical design and proposal generation tool for commercial solar installations. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Solargraf 3D solar design software that produces professional proposals with photorealistic renders for commercial rooftops. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Sighten AI-driven solar layout optimizer that accelerates commercial proposal creation with automated designs. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | PV*SOL Comprehensive PV simulation and design software for generating detailed commercial solar project proposals. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | System Advisor Model (SAM) Free techno-economic modeling tool from NREL for analyzing and supporting commercial solar financing proposals. | other | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 5.5/10 | 10.0/10 |
AI-powered platform for designing commercial solar systems, generating accurate proposals, and streamlining sales workflows.
High-speed PV design and optimization software tailored for large-scale commercial and utility solar proposals.
Free, full-featured solar design and proposal software with financial modeling for commercial projects.
Commercial solar project modeling platform for creating investment-grade proposals and financial analysis.
Industry-standard PV performance simulation software used to validate commercial solar proposals with detailed yield predictions.
Automated electrical design and proposal generation tool for commercial solar installations.
3D solar design software that produces professional proposals with photorealistic renders for commercial rooftops.
AI-driven solar layout optimizer that accelerates commercial proposal creation with automated designs.
Comprehensive PV simulation and design software for generating detailed commercial solar project proposals.
Free techno-economic modeling tool from NREL for analyzing and supporting commercial solar financing proposals.
Aurora Solar
specializedAI-powered platform for designing commercial solar systems, generating accurate proposals, and streamlining sales workflows.
AI-powered autonomous design optimization that automatically generates optimal layouts with shading and production analysis in minutes
Aurora Solar is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for solar design, engineering, and sales proposals, with robust capabilities for commercial projects including complex rooftop and ground-mount systems. It leverages advanced 3D modeling from satellite, drone, and LiDAR data to generate accurate shading analysis, energy production forecasts using bankable PVsyst-validated models, and fully customizable financial proposals. The software streamlines workflows from site assessment to permitting and customer handover, integrating with CRMs and project management tools for end-to-end commercial solar operations.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in 3D modeling and irradiance forecasting validated against real-world data
- Automated proposal generation with detailed financial modeling for PPAs, leases, and ownership
- Seamless integrations with Salesforce, Procore, and other enterprise tools for commercial workflows
Cons
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for small to mid-sized installers
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced commercial features
- Occasional slowdowns when processing very large-scale projects
Best For
Large-scale commercial solar EPCs, developers, and engineering firms needing precise, bankable designs and proposals for complex projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $500-$1,000/month per team (billed annually), with options for per-user ($150-$300/user/month) or project-based licensing; contact sales for quotes.
HelioScope
specializedHigh-speed PV design and optimization software tailored for large-scale commercial and utility solar proposals.
Realtime 3D hour-by-hour shading analysis engine for unparalleled production accuracy
HelioScope is a powerful solar design and proposal software optimized for commercial and utility-scale PV projects, offering advanced 3D modeling, shading analysis, and energy production forecasting. It automates complex engineering tasks like layout optimization and irradiance modeling to generate accurate proposals with integrated financial analysis. Users benefit from seamless workflows that reduce design time while maintaining high precision for rooftop and ground-mount installations.
Pros
- Superior 3D shading and production modeling for accurate yield predictions
- Automated design optimization for large-scale commercial projects
- Integrated financial modeling and professional proposal generation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Less suited for simple residential or very small commercial jobs
Best For
Commercial solar EPCs and engineering firms handling mid-to-large rooftop and ground-mount projects that demand engineering-grade precision.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$300/user/month, with tiered plans and enterprise custom pricing.
OpenSolar
specializedFree, full-featured solar design and proposal software with financial modeling for commercial projects.
TrueShape technology for instant, high-accuracy 3D roof models from aerial imagery
OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar design and proposal software that automates the creation of professional proposals, 3D designs, and financial analyses for both residential and commercial solar projects. It leverages aerial imagery and AI-driven tools like TrueShape for accurate roof modeling and instant system layouts. The platform streamlines sales workflows with CRM integrations and customer portals, making it efficient for solar businesses.
Pros
- Completely free with no paywalls or usage limits
- Rapid proposal generation with professional templates
- Accurate 3D modeling and financial tools suitable for most commercial projects
Cons
- Limited advanced engineering for very large-scale or complex industrial sites
- Financial modeling lacks deep customization for enterprise needs
- Requires reliable internet and may have learning curve for non-sales users
Best For
Commercial solar sales teams and mid-sized installers needing fast, cost-free proposals without heavy engineering demands.
Pricing
100% free for all features, no subscription or hidden fees.
Energy Toolbase
enterpriseCommercial solar project modeling platform for creating investment-grade proposals and financial analysis.
Proprietary rebate and incentive engine that automates tracking, compliance, and cash flow optimization across multiple jurisdictions
Energy Toolbase is a cloud-based platform tailored for commercial solar developers, EPC firms, and financiers, enabling precise energy production modeling, detailed financial pro forma analysis, and professional proposal generation. It supports complex tariff structures, incentives, and rebate tracking to optimize project economics. The software integrates with design tools like Aurora Solar and Helioscope, streamlining workflows from simulation to sales handoff.
Pros
- Advanced energy modeling with bankable accuracy using validated datasets
- Comprehensive financial tools including IRR, NPV, and incentive optimization
- Seamless proposal customization and export for sales teams
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing lacks transparency and suits enterprise-scale users best
- Limited built-in CRM or lead management features
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial solar developers and EPCs needing robust financial modeling and proposal automation for complex projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscriptions starting around $5,000-$10,000 annually per user or team, with project-based tiers; requires demo for exact quote.
PVsyst
specializedIndustry-standard PV performance simulation software used to validate commercial solar proposals with detailed yield predictions.
Sophisticated 3D near-shading scene builder with ray-tracing for precise loss calculations
PVsyst is a leading PV system simulation software used for detailed design, performance prediction, and analysis of solar installations ranging from residential to large commercial and utility-scale projects. It excels in modeling complex factors like near and far shading, module soiling, mismatch losses, and grid interactions to provide accurate energy yield forecasts. While not a full proposal generation tool, it's integral for commercial solar proposals requiring validated technical simulations.
Pros
- Industry-leading simulation accuracy validated against real-world data
- Advanced 3D shading and horizon analysis tools
- Extensive database of PV modules, inverters, and trackers
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- Lacks integrated proposal generation, financial modeling, or CRM features
- Windows-only desktop application with high upfront licensing costs
Best For
Technical engineers and design teams at commercial solar firms needing precise performance simulations to support proposals.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from €590 (basic) to €1,190 (pro), plus annual maintenance (~20% of license cost) for updates.
PVcomplete
specializedAutomated electrical design and proposal generation tool for commercial solar installations.
Horizon360 LiDAR-powered shading analysis for unmatched accuracy in commercial environments
PVcomplete is a specialized software platform for commercial solar proposal generation, offering advanced 3D modeling, precise shading analysis with LiDAR integration, and comprehensive financial pro formas. It enables solar professionals to design rooftop PV systems, forecast energy production accurately, and produce professional-grade proposals tailored for commercial clients. The tool excels in handling complex commercial projects with detailed economic analysis and customizable reporting.
Pros
- Superior LiDAR-based shading analysis for accurate commercial designs
- Robust financial modeling with IRR, ROI, and cash flow projections
- Professional proposal templates that impress commercial clients
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to advanced features
- Higher pricing compared to entry-level competitors
- Limited native integrations with some CRM or project management tools
Best For
Commercial solar EPCs and engineering firms handling complex rooftop projects that require precise shading and financial analysis.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $299/month per user for Pro tier; custom Enterprise pricing for teams with advanced needs.
Solargraf
specialized3D solar design software that produces professional proposals with photorealistic renders for commercial rooftops.
Instant AI-powered 3D solar designs and proposals generated directly from an address using satellite and LiDAR data
Solargraf is an AI-powered solar design and proposal software tailored for commercial solar projects, enabling users to generate professional proposals in minutes using satellite imagery and LiDAR data. It automates 3D modeling, shade analysis, energy production forecasts, and financial modeling with integrated incentives and ROI calculations. The platform also facilitates permitting documentation and stakeholder presentations, streamlining the sales process for solar EPCs and developers.
Pros
- Rapid AI-driven proposal generation from any address
- Highly accurate 3D modeling and shade analysis using real-world data
- Comprehensive financial tools with incentive tracking and cashflow projections
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for high-volume users without volume discounts
- Limited advanced customization for ultra-large commercial rooftops
- Occasional need for manual overrides on complex sites due to AI limitations
Best For
Mid-sized commercial solar installers and EPCs prioritizing speed and visual appeal in proposals to close deals faster.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions start at $199/user for Pro plan; Enterprise custom pricing; pay-per-proposal options from $49/project.
Sighten
specializedAI-driven solar layout optimizer that accelerates commercial proposal creation with automated designs.
Automated 3D site modeling with real-time shading and production analysis for accurate commercial proposals
Sighten is a cloud-based software platform tailored for commercial solar proposal generation, enabling users to create professional proposals with integrated 3D modeling, shading analysis, and financial modeling. It automates the design-to-proposal workflow, supporting complex rooftop and ground-mount systems for industrial and commercial clients. The tool emphasizes accuracy in irradiance calculations and customizable financial outputs to streamline sales processes.
Pros
- Specialized commercial solar tools with advanced 3D shading and irradiance modeling
- Rapid one-click proposal generation with embedded financials
- Seamless integrations with CAD, CRM, and design software
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter smaller firms
- Learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited support for residential or utility-scale projects
Best For
Commercial solar EPC firms and sales teams managing mid-to-large scale industrial projects requiring precise financial and design proposals.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$499/user/month for Pro plan; Enterprise custom pricing with volume discounts.
PV*SOL
specializedComprehensive PV simulation and design software for generating detailed commercial solar project proposals.
Sophisticated 3D ray-tracing engine for hyper-accurate shading and yield predictions on irregular commercial structures
PV*SOL from Valentin Software is a professional-grade photovoltaic design and simulation tool tailored for detailed planning of solar systems, including commercial installations. It enables 3D modeling of complex roofs and structures, precise shading analysis via ray-tracing, energy yield simulations, and generation of professional PDF proposals with economic evaluations. Primarily a desktop application for Windows, it supports large-scale commercial projects with extensive module and inverter databases.
Pros
- Advanced 3D modeling and ray-tracing shading analysis for accurate commercial simulations
- Vast database of over 100,000 modules and 5,000 inverters
- Comprehensive economic analysis and customizable professional reports
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- High upfront cost with limited trial options
- Windows-only desktop software without robust cloud integration
Best For
Experienced solar engineers and firms designing complex commercial rooftop PV systems needing precise simulations.
Pricing
One-time licenses from €1,900 (PV*SOL pro) to €2,900 (premium); optional annual maintenance ~20% of license fee.
System Advisor Model (SAM)
otherFree techno-economic modeling tool from NREL for analyzing and supporting commercial solar financing proposals.
NREL-developed, validated physics-based performance models that deliver industry-leading accuracy for solar system simulations.
The System Advisor Model (SAM), developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is a free, open-source software tool for simulating the technical and financial performance of renewable energy systems, with a primary focus on solar PV, CSP, wind, and other technologies. For commercial solar proposals, it excels in detailed energy yield predictions, shading analysis, and financial metrics like LCOE, IRR, and payback periods using physics-based models. Users can input site-specific weather data, module specs, and financing details to generate precise outputs for project feasibility studies. However, it's geared more toward engineering analysis than streamlined sales proposals.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no usage limits
- NREL-validated physics-based models for superior accuracy
- Comprehensive techno-economic analysis including advanced financial metrics
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring technical expertise
- Dated interface not intuitive for quick use
- Local installation needed; no cloud-based collaboration
Best For
Solar engineers and analysts needing precise, research-grade modeling for commercial project proposals and feasibility studies.
Pricing
Free (open-source download from sam.nrel.gov; no licensing or subscription fees).
Conclusion
The top 10 tools reviewed provide exceptional support for commercial solar proposal creation, with Aurora Solar leading as the top choice due to its AI-driven design and workflow streamlining. HelioScope impresses for large-scale projects with its high-speed optimization, and OpenSolar offers a robust free option with comprehensive financial modeling. These solutions cater to varied needs, ensuring businesses of all sizes can thrive in crafting effective proposals.
Take the first step toward more efficient, standout proposals—explore Aurora Solar to unlock its advanced features and streamline your commercial solar sales process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
