Quick Overview
- 1#1: PVsyst - Industry-leading software for detailed simulation and performance analysis of photovoltaic systems.
- 2#2: Aurora Solar - Cloud-based platform using AI for solar design, sales proposals, and customer acquisition.
- 3#3: Helioscope - Autonomous 3D modeling and design tool optimized for utility-scale PV projects.
- 4#4: PV*SOL premium - Comprehensive 3D design and dynamic simulation software for grid-connected and standalone PV systems.
- 5#5: System Advisor Model (SAM) - Free tool from NREL for modeling PV system performance, cost, and financial metrics.
- 6#6: OpenSolar - Free collaborative platform for solar system design, proposals, and project management.
- 7#7: SolarEdge Designer - Online tool for designing and simulating PV systems optimized for SolarEdge inverters.
- 8#8: HOMER Pro - Optimization software for hybrid renewable energy systems including PV, wind, and storage.
- 9#9: BlueSol - Professional PV system design software with electrical schematics and 3D modeling.
- 10#10: EasySolar - User-friendly tool for creating photorealistic PV installation proposals and designs.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors like feature depth, technical precision, usability, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring they deliver exceptional value across diverse project scopes and user skill levels.
Comparison Table
Solar PV software is essential for streamlining solar energy system design, analysis, and performance evaluation, with tools spanning advanced simulation platforms to intuitive design tools. This comparison table examines key options including PVsyst, Aurora Solar, Helioscope, PV*SOL premium, and System Advisor Model (SAM), offering insights into their unique features, best-use scenarios, and core capabilities. Readers will discover which tool aligns with their project scale, technical expertise, and goals, from detailed engineering to quick feasibility assessments.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PVsyst Industry-leading software for detailed simulation and performance analysis of photovoltaic systems. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Aurora Solar Cloud-based platform using AI for solar design, sales proposals, and customer acquisition. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Helioscope Autonomous 3D modeling and design tool optimized for utility-scale PV projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | PV*SOL premium Comprehensive 3D design and dynamic simulation software for grid-connected and standalone PV systems. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | System Advisor Model (SAM) Free tool from NREL for modeling PV system performance, cost, and financial metrics. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.0/10 | 10/10 |
| 6 | OpenSolar Free collaborative platform for solar system design, proposals, and project management. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.3/10 | 10/10 |
| 7 | SolarEdge Designer Online tool for designing and simulating PV systems optimized for SolarEdge inverters. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 8 | HOMER Pro Optimization software for hybrid renewable energy systems including PV, wind, and storage. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | BlueSol Professional PV system design software with electrical schematics and 3D modeling. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | EasySolar User-friendly tool for creating photorealistic PV installation proposals and designs. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
Industry-leading software for detailed simulation and performance analysis of photovoltaic systems.
Cloud-based platform using AI for solar design, sales proposals, and customer acquisition.
Autonomous 3D modeling and design tool optimized for utility-scale PV projects.
Comprehensive 3D design and dynamic simulation software for grid-connected and standalone PV systems.
Free tool from NREL for modeling PV system performance, cost, and financial metrics.
Free collaborative platform for solar system design, proposals, and project management.
Online tool for designing and simulating PV systems optimized for SolarEdge inverters.
Optimization software for hybrid renewable energy systems including PV, wind, and storage.
Professional PV system design software with electrical schematics and 3D modeling.
User-friendly tool for creating photorealistic PV installation proposals and designs.
PVsyst
specializedIndustry-leading software for detailed simulation and performance analysis of photovoltaic systems.
Sophisticated 3D CAD-based near-shading analysis with Perez anisotropic model for horizon and object occlusion
PVsyst is the industry-leading software for detailed design, simulation, and performance analysis of photovoltaic (PV) systems. It enables precise modeling of PV modules, inverters, trackers, and batteries, incorporating high-resolution meteorological data, shading effects, and system losses for accurate energy yield predictions. Widely used by engineers worldwide, it supports grid-connected, off-grid, and pumping systems with comprehensive economic and optimization tools.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy in PV performance simulation validated against real-world data
- Extensive built-in databases for modules, inverters, and meteo stations
- Advanced 3D shading scene modeling and near-shading loss calculations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Windows-only compatibility
- High upfront licensing cost
Best For
Professional solar engineers and project developers needing precise, bankable PV system simulations for large-scale projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~€790 for basic version; full PRO edition ~€1,400, with optional annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
Aurora Solar
enterpriseCloud-based platform using AI for solar design, sales proposals, and customer acquisition.
AI Auto Design with True Shading, which optimizes panel layouts in seconds using hyper-accurate 3D site models from aerial data
Aurora Solar is a leading cloud-based solar PV design and sales platform that uses AI-driven 3D modeling, satellite imagery, and LIDAR data to create highly accurate solar system proposals. It automates shading analysis, panel optimization, energy yield predictions, and financial modeling to streamline the design-to-sale process for solar professionals. The software supports full project lifecycles, from initial site assessments to permitting and incentives tracking.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with AI-powered 3D modeling and True Shading analysis using LIDAR
- Rapid proposal generation with integrated financials and incentives calculator
- Seamless integrations with CRMs, monitoring systems, and permitting tools
Cons
- Premium pricing may deter small installers
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Cloud-only requires reliable internet connectivity
Best For
Mid-to-large solar sales teams and engineering firms needing precise, professional-grade designs and proposals.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $145/user/month for basic plans, up to $295+/user/month for advanced features with annual contracts.
Helioscope
specializedAutonomous 3D modeling and design tool optimized for utility-scale PV projects.
Real-time, row-by-row 3D shading simulations that process massive projects in minutes
Helioscope is a cloud-based solar PV design and engineering platform specialized for utility-scale projects, enabling rapid 3D modeling, shading analysis, and energy production forecasting. It supports detailed site layout optimization, financial modeling, and proposal generation to streamline the engineering workflow. The software excels in handling large-scale arrays with high accuracy and speed, making it ideal for complex commercial and utility installations.
Pros
- Ultra-fast simulation speeds for GW-scale projects
- Advanced 3D shading and horizon analysis tools
- Seamless collaboration and financial integration
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-experts
- Limited focus on residential/small commercial PV
- High cost for smaller firms
Best For
Utility-scale solar developers, EPC firms, and engineering teams handling large, complex PV projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing starting at around $5,000/year per user; quote-based for teams.
PV*SOL premium
specializedComprehensive 3D design and dynamic simulation software for grid-connected and standalone PV systems.
Sophisticated 3D SolScanner for dynamic near-shading and horizon analysis
PV*SOL premium is a professional-grade software for detailed design, simulation, and optimization of grid-connected and standalone photovoltaic systems. It excels in 3D modeling of roofs and surroundings, precise shading analysis, and accurate yield predictions under real-world conditions. The tool includes extensive databases of PV modules, inverters, batteries, and supports economic evaluations and grid integration studies.
Pros
- Advanced 3D visualization and precise near-shading analysis
- Comprehensive component databases and accurate simulations
- Support for complex system designs including storage and EV integration
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature density
- High upfront licensing cost
- Windows-only with no native cloud or mobile support
Best For
Experienced PV engineers and system designers handling intricate residential or commercial projects requiring detailed 3D modeling and shading precision.
Pricing
Perpetual license ~€1,950 + annual maintenance ~€390 (20%).
System Advisor Model (SAM)
specializedFree tool from NREL for modeling PV system performance, cost, and financial metrics.
NREL-validated physics-based performance models with integrated hourly dispatch and storage simulation
The System Advisor Model (SAM) is a free, open-source desktop application developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) for techno-economic modeling of renewable energy systems, with robust capabilities for solar PV projects. It simulates hourly energy production, system performance ratios, capacity factors, and financial metrics like LCOE using physics-based models, detailed weather data, and component libraries. SAM supports various PV configurations including fixed-tilt, tracking systems, and bifacial modules, while integrating storage, shading, and degradation effects for accurate long-term projections.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no usage limits
- Highly accurate physics-based PV models validated by NREL research
- Extensive integration of weather data, financing, and dispatch options
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring technical expertise
- Outdated desktop-only interface with no cloud or mobile access
- Limited automation for rapid commercial quoting workflows
Best For
Researchers, engineers, and analysts needing precise, detailed techno-economic modeling for solar PV system design and feasibility studies.
Pricing
Free to download and use indefinitely.
OpenSolar
specializedFree collaborative platform for solar system design, proposals, and project management.
Fully automated 3D PV design and proposal generation with zero cost barriers
OpenSolar is a cloud-based solar design and sales platform that allows installers to create accurate 3D PV system designs, perform shade analysis, and generate professional proposals in minutes. It integrates CRM tools, financial modeling, and customer portals to streamline the entire sales process from site assessment to contract signing. Primarily targeted at residential solar, it supports quick iterations and collaboration for sales teams.
Pros
- Completely free with unlimited projects and users
- Intuitive drag-and-drop 3D design and auto-layout tools
- Seamless integration of design, sales proposals, and CRM
Cons
- Limited advanced tools for large-scale commercial or utility projects
- Requires stable internet connection for full functionality
- Customer support primarily community-based for free users
Best For
Residential solar installers and sales teams seeking a free, user-friendly platform to accelerate design-to-sale workflows.
Pricing
100% free core platform; optional enterprise plans for premium support and custom integrations starting at custom quotes.
SolarEdge Designer
specializedOnline tool for designing and simulating PV systems optimized for SolarEdge inverters.
Automatic module-level string optimization with detailed shading analysis
SolarEdge Designer is a free, web-based platform for designing, simulating, and optimizing solar PV systems, primarily tailored for SolarEdge hardware like inverters, power optimizers, and batteries. It enables users to model rooftops using satellite imagery and 3D tools, perform energy yield simulations with hourly weather data, and generate professional reports including single-line diagrams. Ideal for installers and engineers, it streamlines the design process with automatic string optimization and shading analysis.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Accurate simulations using real-time weather and module-level optimization
- Generates professional reports and single-line diagrams for proposals
Cons
- Limited support for non-SolarEdge components
- Requires stable internet connection as it's fully cloud-based
- Learning curve for advanced shading and 3D modeling features
Best For
Solar PV installers and designers focused on SolarEdge ecosystems needing precise system layouts and yield predictions.
Pricing
Free for all users with optional premium monitoring integration.
HOMER Pro
enterpriseOptimization software for hybrid renewable energy systems including PV, wind, and storage.
Genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimization that evaluates thousands of hybrid system configurations automatically
HOMER Pro is a leading software for optimizing hybrid renewable energy systems, including solar PV, wind, batteries, and diesel generators, by simulating thousands of configurations to identify the least-cost solution. It excels in modeling grid-tied, off-grid, and microgrid applications with detailed economic, technical, and risk analyses. Users can perform sensitivity studies and dispatch optimizations to evaluate system performance under varying conditions.
Pros
- Powerful genetic algorithm optimization for hybrid systems
- Comprehensive sensitivity, risk, and emissions analysis
- Extensive component library including detailed solar PV models
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- Higher cost compared to basic PV design tools
- Limited advanced PV-specific features like module-level shading
Best For
Engineers and consultants designing cost-optimal hybrid solar PV systems for off-grid, microgrids, or remote applications.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions starting at $795 for Grid license, up to $3,995 for full Pro license with multi-user options.
BlueSol
specializedProfessional PV system design software with electrical schematics and 3D modeling.
Advanced 3D shading simulator with module-level optimization for complex rooftop installations
BlueSol is a professional software suite specialized in the design, simulation, and economic analysis of photovoltaic (PV) systems, both grid-connected and standalone. It features a vast component database, 3D shading analysis, and detailed energy production forecasts based on hourly simulations. The tool also supports solar thermal systems and generates compliant technical reports for regulatory submissions, making it popular among European installers and engineers.
Pros
- Comprehensive PV and solar thermal design tools with accurate hourly simulations
- Extensive manufacturer component library and 3D modeling capabilities
- Automated report generation compliant with European standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and professional focus
- Primarily tailored to Italian/European regulations and markets
- Windows-only with modular pricing that can add up for full functionality
Best For
Experienced PV engineers and installers in Europe requiring precise system sizing, shading analysis, and normative reporting.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at €495 for basic PV module; full suite around €1,950-€2,500 with optional annual maintenance fees of 18%.
EasySolar
specializedUser-friendly tool for creating photorealistic PV installation proposals and designs.
One-click 3D PV system generation from satellite photos
EasySolar is a cloud-based platform designed for solar PV professionals, enabling rapid design of photovoltaic systems directly from satellite imagery or roof photos. It automates 3D modeling, shading analysis, financial calculations, and proposal generation to streamline the sales and installation process. The software also includes CRM tools, invoicing, and mobile access for on-site use, making it suitable for installers and sales teams.
Pros
- Ultra-fast automatic PV system design from satellite/roof images
- Integrated CRM, quoting, and invoicing for end-to-end sales workflow
- Strong 3D visualization and shading analysis tools
Cons
- Limited advanced engineering features compared to premium tools
- Primarily Europe-focused with fewer global integrations
- Interface can feel clunky for non-Polish users
Best For
Solar sales teams and small-to-medium installers needing quick, visual proposals to close deals faster.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month for basic plan; scales to €99+ for advanced features and teams.
Conclusion
As the leading choice in solar PV software, PVsyst shines with its unmatched detailed simulation and performance analysis, solidifying its status as a professional staple. Aurora Solar follows closely, offering AI-driven tools that simplify design, proposals, and customer outreach, while Helioscope distinguishes itself with autonomous 3D modeling ideal for large-scale projects. Together, these top three tools address diverse needs, ensuring every phase of solar development finds its match.
Don’t wait to unlock efficiency and precision—start exploring PVsyst today to experience why it remains the top pick for those aiming to deliver exceptional solar solutions.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
