Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aurora Solar - Cloud-based platform that automates accurate 3D solar designs, proposals, and fully permit-ready engineering packages.
- 2#2: OpenSolar - Free collaborative solar design software that generates professional engineering diagrams and permit packages instantly.
- 3#3: PVcomplete - Cloud tool specialized in creating single-line diagrams, load calculations, and complete permit packages for PV systems.
- 4#4: Sighten - AI-powered solar design software that rapidly generates accurate plans and permit documentation from roof images.
- 5#5: Helioscope - Design and engineering platform for utility-scale solar projects with exportable documentation for permitting.
- 6#6: PermitFlow - Automation platform that digitizes and streamlines solar permit package submissions and approvals.
- 7#7: PVsyst - Advanced PV simulation software that produces detailed performance reports and layouts used in permit applications.
- 8#8: SolarEdge Designer - Web-based tool for designing SolarEdge PV systems with downloadable single-line drawings and permit documents.
- 9#9: SketchUp - 3D modeling software used to create detailed site models, shading analysis, and drawings for solar permits.
- 10#10: Bluebeam Revu - PDF creation and markup tool for compiling, reviewing, and stamping solar permit packages professionally.
We ranked tools by their ability to automate core tasks (3D design, load calculations, permit stamping), ensure regulatory alignment, offer user-friendly interfaces, and provide long-term value, prioritizing versatility to suit project scale and team needs.
Comparison Table
Solar permit package software streamlines the often complex process of securing approvals for solar projects, with tools tailored to enhance efficiency and compliance. This comparison table features key options like Aurora Solar, OpenSolar, PVcomplete, Sighten, Helioscope, and more, breaking down their core features, integration potential, and user experiences. Readers will gain a clear understanding to identify the best fit for their project needs, whether prioritizing speed, design accuracy, or regulatory support.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aurora Solar Cloud-based platform that automates accurate 3D solar designs, proposals, and fully permit-ready engineering packages. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | OpenSolar Free collaborative solar design software that generates professional engineering diagrams and permit packages instantly. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | PVcomplete Cloud tool specialized in creating single-line diagrams, load calculations, and complete permit packages for PV systems. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Sighten AI-powered solar design software that rapidly generates accurate plans and permit documentation from roof images. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | Helioscope Design and engineering platform for utility-scale solar projects with exportable documentation for permitting. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | PermitFlow Automation platform that digitizes and streamlines solar permit package submissions and approvals. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | PVsyst Advanced PV simulation software that produces detailed performance reports and layouts used in permit applications. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 5.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 8 | SolarEdge Designer Web-based tool for designing SolarEdge PV systems with downloadable single-line drawings and permit documents. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 9 | SketchUp 3D modeling software used to create detailed site models, shading analysis, and drawings for solar permits. | creative_suite | 6.2/10 | 5.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 6.0/10 |
| 10 | Bluebeam Revu PDF creation and markup tool for compiling, reviewing, and stamping solar permit packages professionally. | enterprise | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.0/10 |
Cloud-based platform that automates accurate 3D solar designs, proposals, and fully permit-ready engineering packages.
Free collaborative solar design software that generates professional engineering diagrams and permit packages instantly.
Cloud tool specialized in creating single-line diagrams, load calculations, and complete permit packages for PV systems.
AI-powered solar design software that rapidly generates accurate plans and permit documentation from roof images.
Design and engineering platform for utility-scale solar projects with exportable documentation for permitting.
Automation platform that digitizes and streamlines solar permit package submissions and approvals.
Advanced PV simulation software that produces detailed performance reports and layouts used in permit applications.
Web-based tool for designing SolarEdge PV systems with downloadable single-line drawings and permit documents.
3D modeling software used to create detailed site models, shading analysis, and drawings for solar permits.
PDF creation and markup tool for compiling, reviewing, and stamping solar permit packages professionally.
Aurora Solar
specializedCloud-based platform that automates accurate 3D solar designs, proposals, and fully permit-ready engineering packages.
AI-powered automated permit package generation that produces NABCEP-level engineered documents compliant with 95%+ of U.S. AHJs out-of-the-box
Aurora Solar is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for solar professionals to automate PV system design, engineering, sales, and permitting. It excels in generating fully engineered, code-compliant permit packages including plan sets, single-line diagrams, racking layouts, and structural calculations tailored to local AHJ requirements. Leveraging LiDAR, satellite imagery, and AI-driven tools, it streamlines the entire solar project workflow from site assessment to approved permits.
Pros
- Automated generation of professional, AHJ-compliant permit packages in minutes
- High-accuracy 3D modeling with real-world data integration like LiDAR and weather normalization
- Seamless workflow integrations with CRM, ERP, and monitoring systems
Cons
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for solo installers or very small teams
- Initial learning curve for advanced permitting customizations
- Some niche AHJ requirements may still need manual tweaks
Best For
Mid-to-large solar EPCs, installers, and engineering firms managing high-volume residential and commercial projects requiring rapid, accurate permitting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $169-$299/user/month for core plans, with enterprise tiers for teams including advanced permitting features.
OpenSolar
specializedFree collaborative solar design software that generates professional engineering diagrams and permit packages instantly.
Automated AHJ-specific permit package builder with embedded structural calculations and stamped drawings
OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar design and sales platform that excels in generating professional permit packages for solar installations, automating the creation of AHJ-compliant engineering drawings, single-line diagrams, and racking plans. It integrates 3D modeling, shade analysis, and financial proposals into a seamless workflow, allowing users to produce permit-ready documents in minutes. Ideal for solar professionals, it supports rapid project iteration and submission to local authorities without needing additional CAD software.
Pros
- Completely free core platform with no subscription fees
- One-click generation of accurate, customizable permit packages compliant with most AHJs
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface that speeds up design from roof takeoff to submission
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for highly unique or non-standard roof geometries
- Cloud-only access requires reliable internet, no offline mode
- Customer support can be slower during peak seasons
Best For
Solar installers and EPC firms seeking a cost-free, efficient tool to streamline permit package creation and approvals.
Pricing
100% free for unlimited designs and permit packages; optional premium integrations available.
PVcomplete
specializedCloud tool specialized in creating single-line diagrams, load calculations, and complete permit packages for PV systems.
Automated generation of stamped structural engineering drawings for racking and array analysis
PVcomplete is a specialized cloud-based software for solar professionals that automates the creation of permit-ready engineering packages for PV systems. It generates detailed plan sets including site layouts, single-line electrical diagrams, racking plans, and structural calculations compliant with NEC and local AHJ standards. With a vast library of over 12,000 modules, inverters, and racking components, it significantly reduces manual drafting time from days to hours.
Pros
- Extensive component database for accurate system modeling
- Automated compliance checks and one-click PDF exports
- Cloud collaboration for team workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex projects
- Subscription costs add up for low-volume users
- Limited integrations with some design tools
Best For
Mid-sized solar installers and EPC firms managing high-volume permitting needs.
Pricing
Subscription from $149/user/month (billed annually), with pay-per-package options starting at $75/project.
Sighten
general_aiAI-powered solar design software that rapidly generates accurate plans and permit documentation from roof images.
One-click generation of fully engineered, AHJ-compliant permit packages from imported designs
Sighten is a cloud-based software platform tailored for solar installers, automating the generation of permit-ready packages, including line diagrams, structural engineering plans, and single-line electrical drawings. It streamlines the transition from solar design tools to compliant permitting documents, supporting various AHJs and NEC standards. The tool also facilitates sales proposals and project management, reducing manual drafting time significantly.
Pros
- Lightning-fast automated permit package generation compliant with local codes
- Seamless integrations with Aurora Solar, OpenSolar, and other design platforms
- High accuracy in structural and electrical drawings reducing revisions
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small installers
- Some advanced customizations require engineering add-ons
- Learning curve for optimizing integrations and templates
Best For
Mid-sized solar EPCs and installers handling 50+ residential/commercial projects monthly who need rapid permitting automation.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for core plans, with enterprise tiers and per-project options up to $500+/month.
Helioscope
specializedDesign and engineering platform for utility-scale solar projects with exportable documentation for permitting.
Row-by-row shading optimizer that maximizes energy production in shaded or constrained environments while auto-generating compliant permit drawings
Helioscope is a professional solar PV design and engineering software that allows users to create optimized 3D system layouts, perform accurate energy modeling, and generate permit-ready documentation. It excels in handling complex residential and commercial projects with features like shading analysis, financial modeling, and automated report generation including single-line diagrams (SLDs), racking plans, and wire schedules. Primarily targeted at engineers, it streamlines the transition from design to permitting with stamped engineering outputs.
Pros
- Superior 3D layout optimization and shading analysis for accurate designs
- Comprehensive permit package outputs including SLDs, elevations, and engineering stamps
- Precise energy yield predictions validated against real-world data
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- Higher cost compared to entry-level permit tools
- Limited automation for simple residential permitting workflows
Best For
Experienced solar engineers and firms designing complex commercial PV systems that require detailed, permit-ready engineering packages.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$199/user/month (billed annually), with Pro and Enterprise tiers up to $299+; custom quotes required.
PermitFlow
enterpriseAutomation platform that digitizes and streamlines solar permit package submissions and approvals.
AI-driven permit intelligence that auto-detects jurisdiction-specific requirements and generates tailored packages from design files
PermitFlow is a cloud-based permitting automation platform designed to streamline the creation, submission, and management of permit packages for solar installations and other construction projects. It integrates with solar design tools like Aurora Solar to auto-generate compliant plan sets, perform code checks, and submit directly to local authorities (AHJs). The software provides real-time tracking, revision management, and data-driven insights to reduce permitting timelines by up to 80%.
Pros
- Robust automation for generating NEC-compliant solar permit packages
- Seamless integrations with Aurora Solar, Helioscope, and other design tools
- Real-time permit status tracking and automated revisions
Cons
- Limited coverage to select jurisdictions (expanding but not nationwide)
- Pricing can be steep for low-volume solar installers
- Initial setup requires configuration for custom AHJ requirements
Best For
Mid-to-large solar EPCs and installers with high permitting volume in supported U.S. markets seeking to accelerate project timelines.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; starts around $500/month base + per-project fees (~$50-200/submission), with volume discounts.
PVsyst
specializedAdvanced PV simulation software that produces detailed performance reports and layouts used in permit applications.
Advanced 3D near-shading scene builder with hourly simulation precision
PVsyst is a professional photovoltaic system design and simulation software used for detailed modeling, performance prediction, and optimization of solar PV installations. It provides advanced tools for shading analysis, yield calculations, and report generation, which can support elements of solar permit packages like energy production estimates and system layouts. Primarily aimed at engineers, it excels in technical accuracy but requires additional steps for full permit-ready documentation.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate PV performance simulations and yield predictions
- Comprehensive component database and advanced 3D shading analysis
- Generates detailed technical reports useful for permit energy modeling requirements
Cons
- Steep learning curve with complex interface not ideal for quick permitting
- Lacks streamlined tools for automated single-line diagrams or plan sets
- High upfront cost with no subscription model for small users
Best For
Experienced PV engineers working on utility-scale or commercial projects needing precise simulation data for permit submissions.
Pricing
Perpetual license ~€1,200-€1,900 depending on version; annual updates ~20% of license cost.
SolarEdge Designer
specializedWeb-based tool for designing SolarEdge PV systems with downloadable single-line drawings and permit documents.
Precise module-level optimization and shade analysis powered by SolarEdge's proprietary technology
SolarEdge Designer is a free, cloud-based photovoltaic system design tool tailored for SolarEdge hardware, allowing users to model sites, optimize layouts, and simulate energy production. It generates comprehensive permit packages, including single-line diagrams, equipment lists, and 3D visualizations suitable for local permitting authorities. The software excels in integrating real-time shade analysis and component-level optimization for accurate performance predictions.
Pros
- Free with no subscription required
- Generates professional permit-ready single-line diagrams and reports
- Advanced 3D shade analysis and site modeling
Cons
- Primarily optimized for SolarEdge components, limiting flexibility for other brands
- Web-based only, requiring reliable internet
- Basic customization options compared to dedicated permitting suites
Best For
SolarEdge installers and engineers who need quick, hardware-specific designs and compliant permit packages without additional costs.
Pricing
Completely free for all users.
SketchUp
creative_suite3D modeling software used to create detailed site models, shading analysis, and drawings for solar permits.
Push-pull modeling for rapid, intuitive creation of complex 3D roof and solar array models
SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software used for architectural design and visualization, including modeling solar panel arrays on building rooftops. For solar permit packages, it enables detailed 3D representations of installations but lacks native tools for automated plan generation, structural calculations, or permit compliance documentation. Users often rely on extensions and manual exports to create permit submittals, making it more of a supplementary design tool than a dedicated solution.
Pros
- Intuitive 3D modeling tools for accurate solar array placement and shading analysis
- Extensive extension warehouse with solar-specific plugins like Solar Panel Tools
- High-quality rendering and export options for visual permit presentations
Cons
- No built-in automation for single-line diagrams, racking plans, or electrical schematics
- Requires significant manual effort and third-party integrations for full permit packages
- Limited native support for NEC compliance checks or structural load calculations
Best For
Architects and 3D designers who need visualization and modeling capabilities integrated into broader solar project workflows.
Pricing
Free web version; SketchUp Pro at $299/year; SketchUp Studio at $699/year (includes advanced analysis tools).
Bluebeam Revu
enterprisePDF creation and markup tool for compiling, reviewing, and stamping solar permit packages professionally.
Revu Studio for secure, real-time multiplayer sessions on solar permit PDFs
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF editing and markup software tailored for the AEC industry, enabling precise annotations, measurements, and collaboration on technical drawings. In the context of solar permit packages, it supports reviewing site plans, single-line diagrams, and racking layouts with calibrated tools for accurate takeoffs and custom stamps for code compliance notes. While versatile for manual workflows, it lacks automation for generating solar-specific documents from project data. Its Studio feature facilitates real-time team collaboration on permit submittals.
Pros
- Advanced markup and measurement tools with scaling for precise solar plan takeoffs
- Revu Studio for cloud-based collaboration and publishing of permit packages
- Customizable tool sets and stamps for streamlining review and approval processes
Cons
- No built-in automation for solar-specific diagram generation or AHJ compliance checks
- Steep learning curve for full feature utilization, especially for non-AEC users
- Premium pricing without specialized solar permit package templates or integrations
Best For
Experienced solar engineers and installers who need robust PDF markup and collaboration for reviewing and annotating existing permit documents rather than automated creation.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $349/user for Revu Core, $449 for CAD, and $600 for Complete; perpetual licenses from $1,698 plus $468/year maintenance.
Conclusion
The world of solar permit package software offers standout solutions, with Aurora Solar leading as the top choice—its cloud-based platform automating accurate 3D designs, proposals, and fully permit-ready engineering packages, setting a benchmark for efficiency. OpenSolar impresses as a free, collaborative tool, generating professional diagrams and instant permit-ready packages, ideal for those seeking affordability. PVcomplete rounds out the top tier, excelling with single-line diagrams and load calculations to ensure compliance. Whether prioritizing automation, cost, or specialized compliance, Aurora, OpenSolar, and PVcomplete deliver tailored paths to smoother permitting.
Elevate your solar permit process by exploring Aurora Solar first—its intuitive tools can transform how you design, propose, and secure approvals, making it the smart choice for projects of all scales.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison