Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aurora Solar - AI-powered solar design, sales proposals, and customer management platform for accelerating solar project sales.
- 2#2: OpenSolar - End-to-end free solar design, sales, and project management software used by thousands of solar professionals worldwide.
- 3#3: Solargraf - Lightning-fast 3D solar design and proposal generation tool optimized for residential and commercial rooftops.
- 4#4: AccuLynx - Comprehensive CRM and sales automation platform tailored for solar and roofing contractors.
- 5#5: Leap - All-in-one CRM, financing integration, and design tools for solar and home services businesses.
- 6#6: ServiceTitan - Enterprise field service management software with dispatching, invoicing, and scheduling for solar installers.
- 7#7: JobNimbus - CRM and project management system designed for solar, roofing, and construction contractors.
- 8#8: EnergyToolbase - Commercial solar design, financial modeling, and proposal software for developers and EPCs.
- 9#9: PVsyst - Advanced PV system simulation and performance analysis tool for detailed solar project engineering.
- 10#10: Arka360 - AI-driven 3D solar rooftop design and sales proposal software for quick visualizations and layouts.
These tools were selected based on a focus on robust feature sets, user-friendly design, proven reliability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the unique demands of solar contractors, developers, and service providers.
Comparison Table
Solar business software is essential for optimizing operations in a fast-evolving industry, and selecting the right solution can drive success. This comparison table examines key tools like Aurora Solar, OpenSolar, Solargraf, AccuLynx, Leap, and more, helping readers understand features, usability, and fit for their unique workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aurora Solar AI-powered solar design, sales proposals, and customer management platform for accelerating solar project sales. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | OpenSolar End-to-end free solar design, sales, and project management software used by thousands of solar professionals worldwide. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 3 | Solargraf Lightning-fast 3D solar design and proposal generation tool optimized for residential and commercial rooftops. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | AccuLynx Comprehensive CRM and sales automation platform tailored for solar and roofing contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 5 | Leap All-in-one CRM, financing integration, and design tools for solar and home services businesses. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | ServiceTitan Enterprise field service management software with dispatching, invoicing, and scheduling for solar installers. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 7 | JobNimbus CRM and project management system designed for solar, roofing, and construction contractors. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | EnergyToolbase Commercial solar design, financial modeling, and proposal software for developers and EPCs. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | PVsyst Advanced PV system simulation and performance analysis tool for detailed solar project engineering. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Arka360 AI-driven 3D solar rooftop design and sales proposal software for quick visualizations and layouts. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
AI-powered solar design, sales proposals, and customer management platform for accelerating solar project sales.
End-to-end free solar design, sales, and project management software used by thousands of solar professionals worldwide.
Lightning-fast 3D solar design and proposal generation tool optimized for residential and commercial rooftops.
Comprehensive CRM and sales automation platform tailored for solar and roofing contractors.
All-in-one CRM, financing integration, and design tools for solar and home services businesses.
Enterprise field service management software with dispatching, invoicing, and scheduling for solar installers.
CRM and project management system designed for solar, roofing, and construction contractors.
Commercial solar design, financial modeling, and proposal software for developers and EPCs.
Advanced PV system simulation and performance analysis tool for detailed solar project engineering.
AI-driven 3D solar rooftop design and sales proposal software for quick visualizations and layouts.
Aurora Solar
specializedAI-powered solar design, sales proposals, and customer management platform for accelerating solar project sales.
True-to-life 3D rooftop modeling powered by AI-driven satellite and LiDAR data for unmatched design precision
Aurora Solar is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for solar professionals, offering advanced 3D modeling, accurate shade analysis, and energy production forecasting using high-resolution satellite imagery and LiDAR data. It streamlines the solar sales process with automated proposal generation, financial modeling, and CRM integrations, enabling faster deal closures. The software supports end-to-end workflows for residential and commercial projects, from site assessment to permitting.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate 3D solar design and shade analysis with LiDAR integration
- Seamless proposal generation and financial modeling for quick sales cycles
- Robust integrations with CRM, sales tools, and permitting systems
Cons
- High pricing may be prohibitive for small businesses or startups
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited free tier or trial options for full feature access
Best For
Mid-to-large solar installation companies and EPCs needing professional-grade design accuracy and sales automation.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $145/user/month for basic plans, with enterprise tiers scaling up based on features and users.
OpenSolar
specializedEnd-to-end free solar design, sales, and project management software used by thousands of solar professionals worldwide.
Fully free unlimited 3D solar design and sales automation
OpenSolar is a cloud-based, end-to-end solar business platform that empowers solar installers, designers, and sales teams with tools for 3D system design, proposal generation, lead management, and project tracking. It streamlines the sales process by integrating hardware catalogs, financial modeling, and CRM functionalities into a single intuitive interface. The platform supports unlimited designs and users at no cost, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
Pros
- Completely free with unlimited designs and users
- Powerful 3D modeling and photorealistic rendering
- Integrated CRM, proposals, and project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced design features
- Cloud-only, requires reliable internet
- Limited native customization for reporting
Best For
Solar installers and sales teams looking for a free, comprehensive platform to handle design, sales, and project management.
Pricing
100% free core platform with no subscriptions; premium enterprise features and integrations available upon request.
Solargraf
specializedLightning-fast 3D solar design and proposal generation tool optimized for residential and commercial rooftops.
High-fidelity 3D visualizations powered by satellite and LiDAR data for unmatched design accuracy
Solargraf is an all-in-one cloud-based platform designed specifically for solar businesses, offering tools for 3D system design, proposal generation, permitting, and project management. It leverages high-resolution satellite imagery and LiDAR data for precise site assessments, shade analysis, and realistic visualizations to help installers create compelling customer proposals. The software streamlines workflows from lead to installation, integrating with CRM and accounting systems for end-to-end efficiency.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D modeling with accurate shade and roof analysis
- Automated proposal templates that speed up sales cycles
- Integrated project management reduces administrative overhead
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small teams
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized solar installers and EPC firms seeking professional-grade design and proposal tools to win more bids.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $299+/user/month for pro/enterprise with custom quoting available.
AccuLynx
specializedComprehensive CRM and sales automation platform tailored for solar and roofing contractors.
Real-time job board and communication hub that keeps sales, production, and subs aligned on solar project status
AccuLynx is a robust CRM and project management platform tailored for contractors, including solar installers, that handles lead capture, sales pipelines, job scheduling, and invoicing from start to finish. It centralizes customer communications, tracks project progress with mobile access, and integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Google for seamless operations. While versatile for home services, it supports solar businesses by streamlining sales and production workflows without deep specialization in photovoltaic design or energy modeling.
Pros
- Comprehensive CRM with automated lead nurturing and sales tracking
- Mobile app enables real-time field updates and photo documentation
- Strong integrations with accounting, marketing, and payment processors
Cons
- Lacks advanced solar-specific tools like panel layout or yield modeling
- Pricing can be steep for small solar startups without volume discounts
- Customization options require setup time and support assistance
Best For
Mid-sized solar installation companies prioritizing sales pipeline management and project coordination over in-depth design software.
Pricing
Custom pricing starts at around $150/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $300+ for enterprise features with annual contracts.
Leap
specializedAll-in-one CRM, financing integration, and design tools for solar and home services businesses.
Seamless 3D solar design with one-click financing proposals and e-signing
Leap (leap.io) is an all-in-one platform designed specifically for solar and home performance contractors, streamlining the entire customer journey from lead generation to installation. It offers powerful 3D solar design tools, customizable proposals, financing integrations, CRM, and project management features tailored for solar businesses. The software emphasizes sales acceleration with mobile apps and customer portals, helping teams close deals faster and manage projects efficiently.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end workflow for solar sales and operations
- Strong integrations with financing partners and 3D design tools
- Mobile-first design for field teams and customer self-service portals
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large teams
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited free tier or trial options for small businesses
Best For
Mid-sized solar contractors seeking an integrated platform to accelerate sales cycles and manage full project lifecycles.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500+/month based on team size and features; contact sales for quotes.
ServiceTitan
enterpriseEnterprise field service management software with dispatching, invoicing, and scheduling for solar installers.
Advanced Smart Dispatching that optimizes technician routes and schedules in real-time
ServiceTitan is a robust field service management platform primarily designed for home service industries like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, which can extend to solar installation businesses. It provides tools for scheduling, dispatching technicians, invoicing, CRM, and reporting to streamline operations. While versatile for managing solar projects as service jobs, it lacks specialized solar features like panel design or permitting automation.
Pros
- Powerful dispatching and scheduling for installation crews
- Comprehensive mobile app for technicians in the field
- Strong integrations with accounting and payment systems
Cons
- Lacks solar-specific tools like design software or incentives tracking
- High cost unsuitable for small solar businesses
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
Best For
Mid-sized solar installation companies focused on scaling field service operations rather than specialized solar design.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $200-400 per user/month for larger teams, with additional fees for modules.
JobNimbus
enterpriseCRM and project management system designed for solar, roofing, and construction contractors.
Customizable WorkFlows that automate solar project stages from lead to closeout
JobNimbus is a contractor-focused CRM and project management platform that helps solar businesses manage leads, jobs, scheduling, invoicing, and customer interactions from a centralized dashboard. It offers mobile apps for field teams, customizable workflows, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks for streamlined financials. While versatile for general contracting, it supports solar workflows through job tracking and automation but lacks deep industry-specific design or permitting tools.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for on-site solar installations and updates
- Strong CRM for lead nurturing and sales pipeline management
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for invoicing and payments
Cons
- Limited built-in solar-specific features like panel optimization or rebate tracking
- Advanced customization requires time to set up workflows
- Reporting dashboards lack depth for complex solar project analytics
Best For
Mid-sized solar contractors seeking an affordable, all-in-one CRM and job management tool for general operations rather than specialized design software.
Pricing
Starts at $25/user/month (Essentials), $75/user/month (Professional), $125/user/month (Unlimited); annual billing offers discounts, with a 14-day free trial.
EnergyToolbase
specializedCommercial solar design, financial modeling, and proposal software for developers and EPCs.
Bankable financial modeling engine with IRR, NPV, and cash flow projections validated by lenders
EnergyToolbase is a comprehensive solar business software platform that provides end-to-end tools for project development, financial modeling, proposal generation, and asset performance management. It enables solar developers, EPCs, and financiers to create bankable financial models, automate professional proposals, and monitor portfolio performance in real-time. The platform integrates with monitoring systems and design tools to streamline workflows from origination to operations.
Pros
- Advanced, bankable financial modeling with scenario analysis
- Automated, customizable proposal generation to accelerate sales
- Real-time asset performance tracking and portfolio management
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small businesses or startups
- Steeper learning curve for advanced financial tools
- Limited third-party integrations compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large solar developers, EPCs, and independent power producers managing complex project portfolios.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500-$1,000/month per user for core features, with enterprise plans scaling based on portfolio size.
PVsyst
specializedAdvanced PV system simulation and performance analysis tool for detailed solar project engineering.
Advanced 3D near-shading module with ray-tracing for horizon and obstacle analysis
PVsyst is an industry-standard software for detailed design, simulation, and performance analysis of photovoltaic (PV) systems. It enables users to model complex installations with precise calculations for shading, soiling, module mismatch, and other losses, providing accurate energy yield predictions. Primarily targeted at engineers, it supports grid-connected, stand-alone, and pumping systems with an extensive component database.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate simulation engine with advanced shading and loss modeling
- Comprehensive database of over 10,000 modules and 4,000 inverters
- Supports detailed 3D scene modeling and financial analysis tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- High upfront cost with limited free trial options
- Windows-only and resource-intensive for large projects
Best For
Professional solar engineers and system designers needing precise PV performance simulations for utility-scale or complex projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license ~€1,200 (standard version); annual subscription ~€650; premium features extra.
Arka360
specializedAI-driven 3D solar rooftop design and sales proposal software for quick visualizations and layouts.
Solar component inventory tracking with rooftop and panel-specific serialization
Arka360 is a cloud-based business management software tailored for solar EPC companies, offering end-to-end solutions from lead management and CRM to project tracking, inventory control for solar panels and components, invoicing, and accounting. It provides a 360-degree view of operations with mobile app support and WhatsApp integration for seamless communication. Designed to streamline solar business workflows, it helps installers manage installations, finances, and customer relationships efficiently.
Pros
- Solar-specific modules for inventory and project management
- Integrated CRM and invoicing in one platform
- Mobile app and WhatsApp integration for on-site use
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting customization
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
Best For
Small to medium solar EPC firms seeking an affordable, all-in-one tool for daily operations without needing extensive customizations.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Starter plan), $99/user/month (Pro), with Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools span diverse needs, with Aurora Solar leading as the top choice for its AI-powered fusion of design, proposals, and customer management, speeding solar project sales. OpenSolar impresses with free end-to-end functionality, ideal for accessible workflows, while Solargraf stands out for lightning-fast 3D design and proposal generation, catering to quick-paced environments. These solutions collectively reflect the industry's evolving demands, ensuring success across various business models.
Take the next step in optimizing your solar business—try Aurora Solar first to leverage its advanced tools and streamline your sales and project management processes; your growth starts here.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
