Best Free Solar Design Software of 2025

An accurate assessment of solar energy potential is essential during the pre-feasibility stage of a project. In addition to needing reliable results, it is also important for the pre-feasibility analysis to be conducted efficiently. Tools like Solargis's iMaps and pvPlanner enable quick access to dependable solar yield estimates. The latest Prospect tool enhances the precision of these estimates and facilitates smoother collaboration during the solar project development process. Among the various solar databases, Solargis data is recognized for its superior accuracy and reliability, as supported by multiple independent studies. This data has been validated across more than 1000 locations worldwide, with validation statistics for over 180 non-confidential sites available on the validation map. While popular simulation software such as PVsyst offers sophisticated functionalities for system design and energy modeling, it is important to note that the default weather data provided in these tools may lack reliability. Therefore, utilizing validated solar data is key to optimizing project outcomes.

Our cutting-edge platform accelerates sales and project implementation, providing top-notch solar and energy storage solutions. Key functionalities consist of remote design capabilities utilizing satellite imagery, comprehensive proposals featuring precise pricing and energy analysis, and integrated project management tools. Notably, our customer-facing app is a pioneering solution in the market; it uniquely validates predicted performance and cost savings. Additional features encompass solar and storage power flow tracking, utility bill savings calculations, and performance monitoring. The platform supports diverse workflows for team collaboration and task delegation. By leveraging high-resolution satellite images, users can efficiently create layouts for both residential and commercial projects. Enhance your sales process with visually appealing and accurate proposals, allowing for quicker deal closures. Additionally, effectively manage projects to ensure swift completion while exceeding client expectations. This combination of features makes our platform an invaluable asset for businesses in the renewable energy sector.

The RETScreen® Clean Energy Management Software platform facilitates the planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting of low-carbon initiatives. The more advanced version, RETScreen Expert, is accessible in Viewer mode at no cost to users. In partnership with governmental and multilateral organizations, we co-develop and secure funding for enhanced iterations of the RETScreen® platform. RETScreen Expert, which is a sophisticated iteration of the software, offers tools for benchmarking, feasibility studies, performance evaluation, and portfolio analysis across diverse facility types, such as commercial, institutional, residential, industrial, and power generation, all integrated into a single robust platform. Our innovation lab is dedicated to keeping the RETScreen software at the forefront of the clean energy technology transition, ensuring ongoing enhancements to address the intricate requirements of our extensive and expanding global user base. This commitment to innovation and user satisfaction drives our continuous development efforts in clean energy management solutions.

PVSketch is a user-friendly web application that simplifies the process of developing solar projects. Its approachable interface allows sales professionals to utilize a precise layout tool without needing extensive training. This innovative tool enhances the visualization of solar energy solutions while providing reliable energy modeling capabilities. As a component of the PVComplete platform, PVSketch enables seamless collaboration among solar developers, installers, and engineers, promoting both efficiency and precision in their work. Sales professionals can swiftly initiate a project online with PVSketch, subsequently transferring it to PVCAD, an AutoCAD plugin, for in-depth engineering plans. By making solar design straightforward, PVSketch allows users to create comprehensive solar projects with just five clicks. The intuitive drawing tools ensure that accurate solar designs are within reach for anyone. With just a single click, users can produce a complete layout, but for those who wish to take it further, the platform offers the ability to refine their designs into more complex structures, enhancing the overall project quality. Ultimately, PVSketch not only streamlines the initial phases of solar project development but also empowers users to create sophisticated and tailored solutions.

SunDAT offers a web-based solution for designing utility-scale and commercial solar photovoltaic systems. Our cutting-edge, patented technology is designed to optimize the Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) and maximize energy yields, even on challenging terrains. The system is adept at managing complex boundaries and obstacles, simplifying the design process significantly. By automating workflows, SunDAT enhances the overall efficiency of solar design, making it easier to pinpoint areas with steep slopes or identify sections within a solar array that require grading or should be avoided altogether. Additionally, users can create visual heatmaps, export them to PVsyst, and conduct pile length calculations effortlessly. The software supports exporting project data in various formats such as PDF, DXF, and DAE, facilitating seamless integration with programs like AutoCAD and PVsyst for further design refinement and analysis. SunDAT Web software is tailored to optimize both large-scale utility projects and commercial PV designs, accommodating everything from a substantial 150MW utility-scale ground-mount system to a more modest 2 MW commercial rooftop installation. With SunDAT, you can ensure your solar designs are not only efficient but also effective in harnessing renewable energy.

Effortlessly create residential solar designs that are ready for permits at no cost. You can export a complete permit package for as little as $49 in just a matter of minutes. With the push of a button, generate a solar permit package that is ready for submission. Each interaction is crafted for speed and ease, making it incredibly user-friendly. Lyra is designed so intuitively that seasoned solar professionals can start using it immediately without needing any prior training. You can create exactly what is necessary for a permit, whether it's a basic preliminary design or a detailed, component-level permit-ready design. With just a click, transform your design into a permit package. It's truly that straightforward. The Lyra solar design tool is completely free to use, requiring only your email address to get started on your first design. We also collaborate with solar design software companies to enhance their services. If your product lacks permit packaging capabilities, reach out to us so we can explore potential collaboration opportunities. By joining forces, we can expand our reach and improve the resources available to solar professionals everywhere.

Web Solar Cloud is an easy-to-use online tool for designing solar project. It helps you create professional solar designs quickly, even if you're new to solar design. The software will create a package of documentation for your local permit requirements, including detailed solar panel layouts and electrical diagrams.

SolarEdge Designer is a complimentary online tool designed for solar industry professionals to significantly reduce the costs associated with PV design while creating effective proposals for clients. This robust platform allows users to plan, construct, and verify both residential and commercial SolarEdge systems from the initial concept all the way through to installation, providing a crucial advantage in closing sales. It features a streamlined design process that incorporates numerous automated functions, including stringing, rapid design validation, detection of multiple obstacles, and bulk mapping of Power Optimizer barcodes. Additionally, users can effortlessly export their site layouts to the SolarEdge Monitoring Platform. Create persuasive proposals for customers with in-depth reports and precise energy simulations that have been independently assessed by DNV GL. The detailed financial analysis tools enable accurate predictions of savings on electricity bills and return on investment for system owners. To further captivate potential customers, the platform offers a visually engaging 3D simulation of their project site, enhancing the overall presentation and appeal of the proposals. By utilizing this innovative tool, solar professionals can elevate their sales strategies and improve client satisfaction significantly.

Archelios PRO is a comprehensive simulation and design platform specifically tailored for professionals in the photovoltaic sector, providing an integrated solution for all aspects of solar project development. This software enables users to expertly design, size, simulate, and oversee photovoltaic systems with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency. By leveraging advanced technology, Archelios PRO enhances the energy effectiveness and financial returns of solar initiatives while adhering to essential regulatory and technical standards. It also features robust tools for managing self-consumption, ensuring that generated energy is utilized optimally within the premises. Furthermore, Archelios PRO is backed by responsive technical support and is frequently updated, keeping users aligned with the latest advancements in this dynamic industry. This commitment to innovation not only improves user experience but also fosters greater adaptability in a rapidly changing energy landscape.