Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aurora Solar - Cloud-based platform for solar design, accurate energy modeling, and automated proposal generation to streamline sales.
- 2#2: OpenSolar - Free end-to-end solar design and proposal software with 3D modeling, financial analysis, and CRM integration.
- 3#3: HelioScope - Advanced commercial solar design tool for fast system layout, production modeling, and professional proposals.
- 4#4: Solargraf - Professional solar proposal generator with 3D roof modeling, financial calculators, and customizable templates.
- 5#5: Pylon - Proposal automation software tailored for residential solar sales with instant quotes and e-signing.
- 6#6: Energy Toolbase - Comprehensive platform for solar project modeling, financial analysis, and investor-grade proposals.
- 7#7: Sighten - AI-powered solar sales tool for generating personalized proposals with design and savings analysis.
- 8#8: EasySolar - Mobile-first app for quick solar panel layout, shading analysis, and proposal creation on-site.
- 9#9: PVsyst - Detailed PV system simulation software used for performance predictions and technical proposals.
- 10#10: System Advisor Model (SAM) - Free tool from NREL for techno-economic modeling of solar projects to support proposal financials.
Tools were chosen based on key factors including design accuracy, modeling capabilities, user-friendliness, and overall utility, ensuring a blend of robust performance and practicality for both residential and commercial solar sales workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines popular solar proposal software tools, such as Aurora Solar, OpenSolar, HelioScope, Solargraf, Pylon, and more, to guide readers in evaluating their options. It outlines key features, pricing models, and usability, helping users identify the best fit for their business or project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aurora Solar Cloud-based platform for solar design, accurate energy modeling, and automated proposal generation to streamline sales. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | OpenSolar Free end-to-end solar design and proposal software with 3D modeling, financial analysis, and CRM integration. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 10/10 |
| 3 | HelioScope Advanced commercial solar design tool for fast system layout, production modeling, and professional proposals. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Solargraf Professional solar proposal generator with 3D roof modeling, financial calculators, and customizable templates. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | Pylon Proposal automation software tailored for residential solar sales with instant quotes and e-signing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Energy Toolbase Comprehensive platform for solar project modeling, financial analysis, and investor-grade proposals. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Sighten AI-powered solar sales tool for generating personalized proposals with design and savings analysis. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | EasySolar Mobile-first app for quick solar panel layout, shading analysis, and proposal creation on-site. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | PVsyst Detailed PV system simulation software used for performance predictions and technical proposals. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 5.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | System Advisor Model (SAM) Free tool from NREL for techno-economic modeling of solar projects to support proposal financials. | other | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 4.7/10 | 9.8/10 |
Cloud-based platform for solar design, accurate energy modeling, and automated proposal generation to streamline sales.
Free end-to-end solar design and proposal software with 3D modeling, financial analysis, and CRM integration.
Advanced commercial solar design tool for fast system layout, production modeling, and professional proposals.
Professional solar proposal generator with 3D roof modeling, financial calculators, and customizable templates.
Proposal automation software tailored for residential solar sales with instant quotes and e-signing.
Comprehensive platform for solar project modeling, financial analysis, and investor-grade proposals.
AI-powered solar sales tool for generating personalized proposals with design and savings analysis.
Mobile-first app for quick solar panel layout, shading analysis, and proposal creation on-site.
Detailed PV system simulation software used for performance predictions and technical proposals.
Free tool from NREL for techno-economic modeling of solar projects to support proposal financials.
Aurora Solar
specializedCloud-based platform for solar design, accurate energy modeling, and automated proposal generation to streamline sales.
Proprietary Aurora Modeling Engine for hyper-accurate 3D solar designs from satellite/LiDAR data, reducing errors by up to 50% compared to manual methods
Aurora Solar is a leading cloud-based solar proposal software that enables solar professionals to create accurate 3D designs, forecast energy production, perform financial analysis, and generate professional proposals. It leverages advanced satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and AI-driven tools for precise shading analysis and system optimization. The platform streamlines the entire sales process, from site assessment to permitting, making it ideal for scaling solar businesses.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy in 3D modeling and shade analysis using real-world data
- Comprehensive end-to-end tools for design, financials, proposals, and permitting
- Robust integrations with CRMs, monitoring systems, and sales platforms
Cons
- High pricing can be prohibitive for small installers or startups
- Steep learning curve for users new to advanced solar modeling
- Limited free tier or trial options for extensive testing
Best For
Enterprise-level solar installers, EPC firms, and design companies needing precise, scalable proposal tools for high-volume projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $200-$500+ per user/month, with tiers based on team size, features, and add-ons; quotes required.
OpenSolar
specializedFree end-to-end solar design and proposal software with 3D modeling, financial analysis, and CRM integration.
Unlimited free access to professional-grade 3D solar design and proposal tools
OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar proposal software that allows solar professionals to design PV systems, generate financial proposals, and manage sales pipelines in minutes. It features intuitive 3D modeling, shade analysis, rebate calculators, and CRM integrations to streamline the entire sales process from site survey to contract signing. Widely used by thousands of installers worldwide, it emphasizes speed and accuracy to close deals faster.
Pros
- Completely free with unlimited designs and proposals
- Rapid 3D design and proposal generation in under 60 seconds
- Robust integrations with CRMs, financing, and monitoring tools
Cons
- Cloud-only, requires reliable internet connection
- Steeper learning curve for complex commercial projects
- Limited advanced reporting compared to enterprise alternatives
Best For
Solar sales teams and residential installers seeking a free, high-speed platform to boost proposal volume and close rates.
Pricing
100% free forever with no limits or hidden fees.
HelioScope
enterpriseAdvanced commercial solar design tool for fast system layout, production modeling, and professional proposals.
Parametric layout engine that generates optimized 3D PV array designs with automatic obstruction avoidance in seconds
HelioScope is a cloud-based solar PV design and modeling software tailored for commercial and utility-scale projects, enabling rapid 3D array layouts, shading analysis, and energy yield simulations. It streamlines the proposal process with integrated financial modeling, customizable reports, and bankable production estimates. Users can iterate designs quickly using parametric tools, making it ideal for engineering firms handling large-scale installations.
Pros
- Ultra-fast parametric 3D layout generation for large arrays
- Advanced shading and hourly production modeling with bankable accuracy
- Seamless integration with AutoCAD, PVSyst, and financial tools
Cons
- Less suited for residential or small-scale projects
- Requires reliable internet as it's fully cloud-based
- Enterprise-level pricing may deter solo users or small firms
Best For
Commercial and utility-scale solar engineers needing high-speed, accurate design and proposal tools for complex projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom enterprise pricing; typically $200-500/user/month or $10,000+ annually depending on team size and features.
Solargraf
specializedProfessional solar proposal generator with 3D roof modeling, financial calculators, and customizable templates.
One-click 3D roof modeling and instant proposal generation from satellite imagery
Solargraf is a solar design and proposal software that automates the creation of accurate 3D models, shading analysis, and professional proposals using satellite imagery and AI-driven tools. It streamlines the sales process for solar installers by generating energy production forecasts, financial breakdowns, and customizable PDFs in minutes. The platform supports residential projects with integrations for CRM, payment processing, and project management systems.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 3D modeling and proposal generation from any address
- High-quality visualizations and accurate shading analysis
- Seamless integrations with CRM and e-signature tools
Cons
- Limited advanced features for large-scale commercial projects
- Occasional inaccuracies in complex roof modeling requiring manual tweaks
- Higher pricing tiers needed for full team collaboration
Best For
Residential solar installers and small-to-medium teams prioritizing speed and professional proposals over enterprise-scale capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Starter plan; Pro at $199/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Pylon
specializedProposal automation software tailored for residential solar sales with instant quotes and e-signing.
One-click 3D solar system design using AI-powered satellite imagery for instant, accurate layouts
Pylon is a cloud-based solar proposal software designed for solar installers to create professional, interactive 3D proposals quickly using satellite imagery and automated design tools. It generates photorealistic renders, financial breakdowns, and customizable templates to help close deals faster. The platform streamlines the process from site analysis to client presentation, reducing proposal time from hours to minutes.
Pros
- Rapid proposal generation with satellite-based 3D modeling
- Stunning photorealistic visuals that impress clients
- Mobile-friendly interface for on-site use
Cons
- Higher pricing for advanced features
- Limited integrations with CRM or monitoring systems
- Steeper learning curve for complex customizations
Best For
Small to mid-sized solar installers focused on creating visually compelling proposals to win residential deals.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Starter plan (basic proposals), $299/month for Pro (advanced design tools), with enterprise custom pricing.
Energy Toolbase
enterpriseComprehensive platform for solar project modeling, financial analysis, and investor-grade proposals.
Bankable financial pro formas with automated utility rate modeling and rebate tracking
Energy Toolbase is a robust solar proposal software platform designed for designing PV and energy storage systems, generating professional proposals, and conducting detailed financial modeling. It caters primarily to commercial and utility-scale projects, offering performance simulations, incentive tracking, and asset management tools. The software streamlines the sales-to-engineering workflow with customizable templates and integrations for monitoring systems.
Pros
- Advanced financial modeling with bankable pro formas and incentive calculations
- Accurate system design tools with shading analysis and production forecasting
- Seamless integrations with CRM, monitoring platforms, and permitting software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners compared to simpler residential tools
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large operations
- Limited focus on residential single-family proposals
Best For
Commercial solar installers, EPCs, and developers needing sophisticated financial analysis and team collaboration for larger projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $150/user/month with volume discounts for high-usage teams.
Sighten
specializedAI-powered solar sales tool for generating personalized proposals with design and savings analysis.
One-click interactive 3D proposals that clients can rotate and explore on any device for an engaging sales experience
Sighten is a cloud-based solar proposal software that empowers solar installers to create professional, interactive proposals with 3D roof designs, financial modeling, and e-signing capabilities. It streamlines the sales process by automating calculations for incentives, loans, and ROI, while allowing customization of branding and layouts. The platform integrates with CRMs like Aurora Solar and Salesforce, making it efficient for teams handling high-volume leads.
Pros
- Rapid proposal generation with drag-and-drop 3D design tools
- Immersive client presentations via interactive 3D viewers
- Seamless integrations with leading solar CRMs and design software
Cons
- Steep pricing for smaller teams or startups
- Moderate learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited built-in lead management compared to full CRM suites
Best For
Mid-sized solar sales teams seeking visually stunning proposals to close deals faster without needing separate design tools.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Basic), $199/user/month (Pro), $299/user/month (Enterprise); annual discounts available.
EasySolar
specializedMobile-first app for quick solar panel layout, shading analysis, and proposal creation on-site.
One-click 3D PV system design on any roof with automatic component optimization
EasySolar is a solar proposal software designed for PV installers and sales teams, enabling rapid creation of 3D roof models, shading analysis, and professional proposals. It automates financial calculations, energy yield predictions, and customized quotes with drag-and-drop tools. The platform integrates CRM functionality and a customer portal to manage leads and follow-ups efficiently.
Pros
- Instant 3D visualization and accurate shading analysis
- Professional, customizable proposal templates with financial simulations
- Built-in CRM and mobile app for on-site sales
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers for advanced features
- Limited integrations compared to top competitors
- Steeper learning curve for complex customizations
Best For
Mid-sized solar sales teams needing fast, visually compelling proposals for residential and commercial projects.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month for Basic plan; Pro at €99/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing, with a 14-day free trial.
PVsyst
specializedDetailed PV system simulation software used for performance predictions and technical proposals.
Advanced 3D near-shading simulation with detailed electrical mismatch modeling
PVsyst is a leading photovoltaic system design and simulation software used by engineers for detailed modeling of solar PV installations. It excels in performance predictions, including energy yield calculations, shading analysis, and system optimization using extensive component databases. While powerful for technical simulations, it is less oriented toward streamlined proposal generation or sales workflows compared to dedicated proposal tools.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate energy yield simulations with advanced loss factors
- Comprehensive 3D shading and horizon analysis tools
- Vast library of PV modules, inverters, and meteorological data
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- High cost with perpetual licenses and optional annual updates
- Limited built-in tools for customer proposals, quoting, or CRM integration
Best For
Experienced solar engineers and researchers focused on precise technical design validation rather than sales proposals.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~€790 for basic version, up to €1,400 for pro; annual service contracts ~20% of license fee.
System Advisor Model (SAM)
otherFree tool from NREL for techno-economic modeling of solar projects to support proposal financials.
Advanced, physics-based performance modeling integrated with detailed financial analysis for reliable LCOE and IRR predictions
The System Advisor Model (SAM), developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is a free desktop software tool for simulating the performance and financial metrics of renewable energy systems, particularly solar PV, CSP, wind, and battery storage. It enables detailed techno-economic analysis, including energy yield predictions, LCOE calculations, and cash flow modeling based on user-defined inputs like weather data, equipment specs, and incentives. While excellent for research and engineering validation, it lacks polished proposal generation features tailored for sales teams.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no usage limits
- Highly accurate, validated models backed by NREL research
- Comprehensive parametric analysis for performance and economics
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires engineering expertise
- No customer-facing proposal templates or branding options
- Desktop-only with cumbersome interface for quick quoting
Best For
Engineers and analysts needing precise technical modeling for solar project feasibility studies rather than sales proposals.
Pricing
Free (open-source download from nrel.gov)
Conclusion
After thoroughly reviewing all 10 tools, Aurora Solar leads as the top choice, combining cloud-based design, precise energy modeling, and automated proposal generation to streamline sales. OpenSolar follows as a strong, free end-to-end option with 3D modeling and CRM integration, while HelioScope stands out for advanced commercial tools and fast system layout. Each fills a unique niche, but Aurora Solar’s holistic approach makes it the best pick overall.
Don’t miss out—begin with Aurora Solar to transform your solar sales process; its integrated features deliver exceptional efficiency, though exploring OpenSolar or HelioScope can also suit specific needs like budget or project type.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
