Top 10 Best Pv Design Software of 2026

Aurora Solar is a cloud-based solar PV design and sales platform that leverages high-resolution satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and AI to create accurate 3D roof models and optimize system layouts. It streamlines the entire workflow from site assessment and design to proposal generation, financial modeling, and customer approvals. The software supports residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects with real-time collaboration tools for teams.

PVsyst is a leading photovoltaic (PV) system design and simulation software used by engineers worldwide for detailed performance modeling of solar installations. It excels in simulating grid-connected, off-grid, and pumping systems, incorporating precise meteorological data, component databases, and advanced shading analysis. The tool provides comprehensive reports on energy yield, losses, and financial metrics, making it essential for accurate project feasibility studies.

HelioScope is a cloud-based solar PV design software tailored for utility-scale projects, enabling rapid system layout, detailed energy yield simulations, and financial analysis. It excels in automating design processes with topographic awareness, row-level shading calculations, and optimization tools to maximize energy production. The platform supports collaborative workflows and integrates seamlessly with other solar tools for comprehensive project planning.

PV*SOL from Valentin Software is a professional-grade PV design and simulation tool that enables detailed planning of grid-connected and standalone photovoltaic systems. It features advanced 3D modeling for roofs and surroundings, precise shading analysis using fisheye photos or LiDAR data, and accurate yield forecasts based on real meteorological data. The software includes extensive databases for PV modules, inverters, batteries, and other components, along with economic and grid integration analyses.

OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar design and sales platform that automates the creation of professional PV system designs, 3D models, and financial proposals for residential and commercial projects. It streamlines the sales process with tools for site analysis, equipment selection, shading estimates, and customizable customer presentations. The software integrates with CRM systems and offers mobile access for on-site work, making it efficient for solar installers and sales teams.

The System Advisor Model (SAM) from NREL is a free, open-source software for simulating the performance and financial viability of renewable energy systems, with robust PV modeling capabilities including detailed system configuration, weather data integration, and energy yield predictions. It supports parametric analysis, degradation modeling, and comprehensive financial metrics like LCOE and cash flows. Primarily used for feasibility studies rather than full layout design, SAM excels in accurate, research-validated simulations backed by NREL expertise.

BlueSol is a professional photovoltaic design software developed by BlueSol Italia, enabling detailed sizing, simulation, and economic analysis of grid-connected, stand-alone, and hybrid PV systems. It features hourly and yearly performance simulations, 3D shading analysis, electrical schematic generation, and compliance with international standards like IEC 61724. The tool supports a vast database of modules, inverters, and batteries, making it suitable for complex engineering projects.

EasySolar is a cloud-based PV design software tailored for solar installers and distributors, allowing users to create detailed 3D PV system designs rapidly using satellite imagery, aerial photos, or manual sketching. It automates energy yield calculations, shading analysis, and generates professional sales proposals with one-click exports. The platform integrates seamlessly with CRM and ERP systems to streamline the design-to-installation workflow.

SolarEdge Designer is a free, web-based PV system design tool tailored for SolarEdge inverters, power optimizers, and energy storage. It allows users to model rooftops in 3D, analyze shading, optimize string layouts automatically, and generate detailed proposals with performance simulations. The platform integrates seamlessly with SolarEdge's monitoring ecosystem for post-installation validation.

Enphase Designer is a cloud-based PV design tool optimized for systems using Enphase microinverters, IQ Batteries, and related hardware. It offers 3D rooftop modeling, shade analysis with LiDAR integration, energy yield predictions, and automated proposal and single-line diagram generation. The software streamlines design-to-install workflows through tight integration with Enphase's ecosystem, including Illuminate for permitting.