Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aurora Solar - Cloud-based platform for automated solar PV design, sales proposals, and financial analysis.
- 2#2: OpenSolar - Free end-to-end solar design, proposal, and CRM software for residential and commercial projects.
- 3#3: HelioScope - Professional-grade PV layout and energy yield modeling tool optimized for commercial solar projects.
- 4#4: PVsyst - Advanced PV system simulation software for detailed performance analysis and sizing.
- 5#5: Solargraf - Integrated solar design and quoting software with 3D modeling and permit-ready plans.
- 6#6: PV*SOL - Comprehensive PV simulation software for designing and optimizing grid-connected and off-grid systems.
- 7#7: EasySolar - User-friendly solar proposal generator with design tools and CRM integration for quick estimates.
- 8#8: System Advisor Model (SAM) - Free performance and financial modeling tool for renewable energy systems including solar PV.
- 9#9: SolarEdge Designer - Web-based tool for designing and simulating SolarEdge inverter-based PV systems.
- 10#10: Enphase Design Center - Online platform for sizing and designing Enphase microinverter solar systems with production estimates.
These tools were selected based on a focus on core strengths: robust features (including design, financial modeling, and permit readiness), user experience, reliability of energy yield projections, and value across diverse project scales, ensuring they meet the needs of both beginners and experts.
Comparison Table
Solar estimate software simplifies renewable energy project planning, aiding in designing efficient systems and optimizing performance. This comparison table explores key features of leading tools like Aurora Solar, OpenSolar, HelioScope, PVsyst, Solargraf, and more, helping readers identify the best fit for their needs. By evaluating functionality, user experience, and technical capabilities, stakeholders can make informed decisions to enhance project outcomes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aurora Solar Cloud-based platform for automated solar PV design, sales proposals, and financial analysis. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | OpenSolar Free end-to-end solar design, proposal, and CRM software for residential and commercial projects. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 10/10 |
| 3 | HelioScope Professional-grade PV layout and energy yield modeling tool optimized for commercial solar projects. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | PVsyst Advanced PV system simulation software for detailed performance analysis and sizing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.6/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Solargraf Integrated solar design and quoting software with 3D modeling and permit-ready plans. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | PV*SOL Comprehensive PV simulation software for designing and optimizing grid-connected and off-grid systems. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | EasySolar User-friendly solar proposal generator with design tools and CRM integration for quick estimates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | System Advisor Model (SAM) Free performance and financial modeling tool for renewable energy systems including solar PV. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 10/10 |
| 9 | SolarEdge Designer Web-based tool for designing and simulating SolarEdge inverter-based PV systems. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Enphase Design Center Online platform for sizing and designing Enphase microinverter solar systems with production estimates. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-based platform for automated solar PV design, sales proposals, and financial analysis.
Free end-to-end solar design, proposal, and CRM software for residential and commercial projects.
Professional-grade PV layout and energy yield modeling tool optimized for commercial solar projects.
Advanced PV system simulation software for detailed performance analysis and sizing.
Integrated solar design and quoting software with 3D modeling and permit-ready plans.
Comprehensive PV simulation software for designing and optimizing grid-connected and off-grid systems.
User-friendly solar proposal generator with design tools and CRM integration for quick estimates.
Free performance and financial modeling tool for renewable energy systems including solar PV.
Web-based tool for designing and simulating SolarEdge inverter-based PV systems.
Online platform for sizing and designing Enphase microinverter solar systems with production estimates.
Aurora Solar
specializedCloud-based platform for automated solar PV design, sales proposals, and financial analysis.
Physics-based irradiance and shading modeling for industry-leading accuracy in energy production estimates
Aurora Solar is a leading cloud-based solar design and sales platform that enables solar professionals to create highly accurate PV system designs, 3D visualizations, and customized proposals. It uses advanced satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and physics-based modeling for precise energy yield predictions, shading analysis, and financial modeling. The software integrates seamlessly with CRM systems and automates workflows from site assessment to permitting, making it ideal for scaling solar sales operations.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy in solar production forecasting with physics-based modeling and real-time data integration
- Intuitive 3D modeling, AR/VR tools, and automated proposal generation for faster sales cycles
- Robust integrations with CRM, ERP, and permitting platforms for end-to-end workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced feature depth
- Pricing is premium and scales with usage, potentially high for small teams
- Some customization limitations in reporting templates
Best For
Professional solar installers, EPC firms, and sales teams needing precise, scalable design and proposal tools for enterprise-level operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at ~$200/user/month, with tiers based on features, users, and volume; free trial available.
OpenSolar
specializedFree end-to-end solar design, proposal, and CRM software for residential and commercial projects.
Automated 3D solar system design and professional proposal generation from satellite imagery in seconds.
OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar design and sales platform that enables solar professionals to generate accurate 3D system designs, proposals, and financial analyses from satellite imagery with minimal input. It streamlines the entire sales process, from site assessment and shading analysis to contract generation and CRM integration. The software is particularly noted for its speed in creating professional proposals that help close deals faster.
Pros
- Completely free with unlimited proposals and designs
- Advanced 3D modeling, shading analysis, and financial tools
- Fast one-click proposal generation from any address
Cons
- Cloud-only, requiring reliable internet
- Steep learning curve for complex customizations
- Limited advanced integrations with some CRMs
Best For
Solar sales teams and installers needing a free, all-in-one tool for rapid design and proposal creation.
Pricing
100% free with no tiers or limits on core features.
HelioScope
specializedProfessional-grade PV layout and energy yield modeling tool optimized for commercial solar projects.
Patented full-spectrum ray-tracing engine for minute-by-minute shading analysis across entire arrays
HelioScope is a cloud-based solar design and engineering platform designed for professional PV system modeling, performance simulation, and proposal generation. It specializes in accurate 3D rooftop modeling, advanced shading analysis using ray-tracing, and optimization for both residential and commercial projects. The software supports batch processing for large portfolios and integrates financial modeling to streamline engineering workflows for solar installers and EPC firms.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate shading and energy yield predictions via patented ray-tracing engine
- Efficient batch processing and optimization for large-scale commercial projects
- Robust financial and proposal tools integrated with design workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to engineering-focused interface
- Higher pricing may not suit small residential installers
- Limited emphasis on consumer-facing sales presentations compared to competitors
Best For
Ideal for professional solar engineers and EPC companies handling complex commercial and utility-scale PV designs requiring high-precision modeling.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $299/user/month for Pro; Enterprise custom pricing for advanced features and support.
PVsyst
specializedAdvanced PV system simulation software for detailed performance analysis and sizing.
Sophisticated 3D near-shading modeling for precise impact assessment on system yield
PVsyst is a professional-grade photovoltaic system design and simulation software used for detailed modeling and performance prediction of solar PV installations. It excels in simulating complex systems, including module layouts, inverter configurations, shading effects via 3D modeling, and grid interactions, providing accurate yield estimates and loss analyses. Widely trusted in the industry for engineering-grade precision, it generates comprehensive reports for feasibility studies, bankability, and optimization.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate simulations validated against real-world data
- Extensive database of PV modules, inverters, and trackers
- Advanced 3D shading analysis and detailed loss diagrams
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront cost with annual maintenance fees
- Desktop-only (Windows), lacking cloud collaboration
Best For
Experienced PV engineers and designers handling complex, large-scale projects needing precise performance modeling.
Pricing
Perpetual license ~€1,200-€2,000 depending on version, plus ~€600 annual update fee.
Solargraf
specializedIntegrated solar design and quoting software with 3D modeling and permit-ready plans.
AI-powered instant 3D roof modeling and solar layout from satellite imagery and LiDAR data
Solargraf is a cloud-based solar design and sales software that automates the creation of 3D solar system models, proposals, and financial estimates using satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and AI-driven tools. It streamlines the process from site analysis and shade modeling to customizable proposals with integrated financing options. The platform supports team collaboration and integrates with popular CRMs, monitoring systems, and permitting tools for end-to-end solar sales efficiency.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 3D designs generated in under 2 minutes from any address
- Accurate shade analysis and energy production modeling with LiDAR integration
- Professional, customizable proposals with embedded financial calculators
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced enterprise features
- Limited offline capabilities as it's fully cloud-dependent
- Occasional learning curve for complex custom configurations
Best For
Mid-sized solar sales and installation teams needing rapid, accurate designs to accelerate deal closures.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan; Enterprise at $199/user/month with custom options.
PV*SOL
specializedComprehensive PV simulation software for designing and optimizing grid-connected and off-grid systems.
Advanced 3D visualization and dynamic shading analysis for hyper-realistic performance modeling
PV*SOL, developed by Valentin Software, is a professional-grade photovoltaic system design and simulation tool used for planning grid-connected and standalone solar PV installations. It enables detailed 3D modeling of roofs and surroundings, component selection from extensive databases, and precise yield forecasts incorporating shading, weather data, and system losses. The software generates comprehensive reports, economic analyses, and visualizations to support optimal system sizing and performance predictions.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D shading and roof modeling for accurate simulations
- Vast database of PV modules, inverters, and batteries with auto-matching
- Detailed yield predictions and professional reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced complexity
- High upfront cost for full-featured versions
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile integration
Best For
Experienced solar engineers and installers requiring precise, large-scale PV system designs and simulations.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from €1,190 for PV*SOL basic to €2,290 for premium; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost; free trial and online version available.
EasySolar
specializedUser-friendly solar proposal generator with design tools and CRM integration for quick estimates.
Instant 3D roof modeling and panel optimization from satellite photos
EasySolar is a cloud-based solar design and proposal software that allows installers to generate professional 3D solar system designs and estimates quickly using satellite imagery for roof modeling. It automates panel placement, shading analysis, financial calculations, and proposal generation to accelerate the sales process. The platform includes CRM tools, customer portals, and mobile apps for on-site use, making it ideal for sales-focused solar businesses.
Pros
- Rapid proposal creation with high-quality 3D visualizations
- Intuitive interface and mobile app for field use
- Integrated CRM and customer portal for sales tracking
Cons
- Limited advanced engineering simulations compared to top tools
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Fewer third-party integrations than competitors
Best For
Small to medium solar sales teams prioritizing fast, visually impressive proposals over deep engineering analysis.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Basic plan; Pro at $199/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
System Advisor Model (SAM)
specializedFree performance and financial modeling tool for renewable energy systems including solar PV.
Integrated hourly performance simulation with advanced financial dispatch and optimization models
The System Advisor Model (SAM) from NREL is a free, desktop software tool designed for modeling the performance and financial viability of renewable energy systems, with robust capabilities for solar PV, concentrating solar power (CSP), and hybrid systems including storage. It enables users to simulate hourly energy production, optimize system sizing, and calculate key metrics like levelized cost of energy (LCOE) using validated physics-based models and weather data integration. Primarily used for detailed engineering and economic analyses, SAM supports a wide range of incentives, degradation rates, and financing options.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits or subscriptions
- Research-grade accuracy from NREL-validated models and extensive technology support
- Powerful financial modeling including incentives, debt, and LCOE calculations
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering knowledge
- Dated interface with complex manual inputs
- Desktop-only (Windows/Mac/Linux), no cloud or mobile access
Best For
Engineers, researchers, and developers needing precise, detailed techno-economic modeling for solar projects.
Pricing
Free (downloadable from NREL website, no costs or licensing fees)
SolarEdge Designer
specializedWeb-based tool for designing and simulating SolarEdge inverter-based PV systems.
Automatic power optimizer and string design optimization at the module level for maximum energy yield
SolarEdge Designer is a free, cloud-based photovoltaic (PV) system design tool tailored for SolarEdge hardware, enabling users to create detailed solar installations. It features 3D roof modeling, module placement, automatic string design, shading analysis, and energy production estimates. The software generates professional proposals, single-line diagrams, and permit packages, with seamless integration into SolarEdge's monitoring platform for post-installation tracking.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Highly accurate module-level design and production forecasting
- Excellent integration with SolarEdge inverters, optimizers, and monitoring
Cons
- Limited support for non-SolarEdge components
- Steep learning curve for complex commercial designs
- Requires constant internet access as it's fully cloud-based
Best For
Solar installers and engineers focused on SolarEdge ecosystems needing precise system designs and professional documentation.
Pricing
Free with a required SolarEdge account; no paid tiers.
Enphase Design Center
specializedOnline platform for sizing and designing Enphase microinverter solar systems with production estimates.
Native integration with Enlighten for end-to-end design, commissioning, and performance monitoring
Enphase Design Center is a web-based solar design and estimation tool tailored for professionals installing Enphase microinverter systems. It enables users to model roofs in 3D, perform shading analysis, auto-generate optimized PV array layouts, and produce professional proposals with financial estimates. Integrated with the Enphase Enlighten platform, it supports seamless system commissioning and monitoring from design through installation.
Pros
- Free access for certified installers with high value
- Precise 3D modeling and automated shading analysis
- Seamless integration with Enphase ecosystem for proposals and monitoring
Cons
- Limited to Enphase hardware, no multi-vendor support
- Requires Enphase certification for full access
- Steeper learning curve for non-Enphase users
Best For
Enphase-certified solar installers focused on designing and estimating IQ microinverter systems.
Pricing
Free for Enphase Certified Installers; certification required.
Conclusion
Solar estimate software varies in focus but collectively simplify project planning, with Aurora Solar emerging as the top choice—its cloud-based platform excels in automated design, proposals, and financial analysis. OpenSolar stands out as a free, end-to-end tool ideal for residential and commercial projects, while HelioScope leads for commercial needs with professional-grade PV layout and energy yield modeling. These tools highlight the range of options available to meet different user requirements.
Begin creating precise solar estimates today by trying Aurora Solar, the top-ranked solution for its seamless integration of design, proposal, and financial tools.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
