Top 10 Best Solar Array Design Software of 2026

Aurora Solar is a cloud-based solar design and sales platform that automates the creation of accurate 3D PV system models using LiDAR, satellite imagery, and AI-driven layout optimization. It enables rapid generation of bankable designs, detailed shading analysis, production estimates, and professional sales proposals. The software integrates engineering, sales, and operations workflows to help solar professionals close deals faster and reduce design errors.

HelioScope is a cloud-based solar PV design and engineering platform specialized for utility-scale solar arrays, offering rapid 3D modeling, layout optimization, and energy production forecasting. It excels in handling complex terrain with accurate irradiance and shading analysis, enabling quick iterations on large-scale projects. The software integrates financial modeling, collaboration tools, and export capabilities for seamless project workflows.

PVsyst is a professional-grade software for simulating and designing photovoltaic (PV) systems, including grid-connected, off-grid, and pumping applications. It provides detailed performance predictions by modeling complex factors like shading, module mismatches, soiling, and aging. With extensive databases of modules, inverters, and meteo data, it's trusted for bankable yield assessments in engineering projects worldwide.

OpenSolar is a free, cloud-based platform designed for solar professionals to quickly generate 3D solar array designs, proposals, and sales materials using satellite imagery and automated rooftop modeling. It integrates shading analysis, financial calculators, and CRM tools to streamline the entire sales process from design to contract signing. The software excels in speed and accessibility, making it suitable for installers focused on high-volume proposals.

PV*SOL is a professional photovoltaic system design software developed by Valentin Software, enabling detailed planning and simulation of grid-connected and off-grid PV arrays. It features 3D roof modeling, precise shading analysis, and comprehensive yield forecasts based on real weather data. The tool supports extensive component databases for modules, inverters, and storage, making it suitable for accurate system optimization and economic evaluations.

The System Advisor Model (SAM), developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is a free software tool for simulating the performance and financial metrics of renewable energy systems, with strong capabilities for solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Users can input detailed design parameters such as module types, array configurations, inverters, shading, and site weather data to model hourly energy production, system losses, and long-term degradation. It excels in techno-economic analysis, helping optimize solar projects for profitability under various financing and incentive scenarios.

EasySolar is a cloud-based solar design software that automates the creation of photovoltaic (PV) system proposals, including 3D roof modeling, array layouts, energy yield simulations, and financial calculations. It streamlines the process for installers by generating professional PDFs with single-line diagrams and visualizations in minutes. Primarily used for residential and small commercial projects, it supports quick sales pitches and design iterations.

SolarEdge Designer is a free, web-based solar PV system design tool optimized for SolarEdge inverters, power optimizers, and monitoring ecosystem. It enables users to create detailed 2D/3D rooftop layouts, perform module-level string optimization, and generate energy yield predictions with shade analysis. The software outputs professional reports including bills of materials, single-line diagrams, and permit-ready documentation.

BlueSol is a professional software solution for designing, simulating, and analyzing photovoltaic (PV) systems, supporting both grid-connected and off-grid installations with batteries and hybrid components. It provides tools for component selection, electrical simulations, 3D shading analysis, and economic feasibility studies. The software generates detailed technical reports and documentation compliant with international standards, making it suitable for engineers and installers.

HOMER Pro is a comprehensive optimization software for designing and simulating hybrid renewable energy systems, including solar PV arrays integrated with batteries, wind, generators, and grid connections. It uses hourly time-series simulations and advanced algorithms to determine the optimal system configuration based on technical performance and economic metrics like net present cost. While excellent for system-level sizing and dispatch strategy, it lacks specialized tools for detailed solar array layout, shading analysis, or string-level design typically found in dedicated PV software.