Top 20 Alternatives to SolarDesignTool in Solar Software

SolarDesignTool is a cloud‑based platform for creating, visualising and analysing photovoltaic system layouts, offering tools for shading analysis, energy yield simulation and proposal generation. The list below presents 20 widely‑used alternatives that provide comparable or complementary capabilities for solar engineers, installers and consultants.

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Top Competitors to Consider

Comprehensive cloud‑based solar design suite with 3‑D modeling, shade analysis, financial proposals and automated permitting.

Web‑based PV design tool that combines detailed shading analysis with performance modeling and quick layout generation.

#4 PVSyst

Industry‑standard desktop software for detailed system sizing, shading studies, and long‑term energy yield simulations.

Free NREL‑maintained tool for performance and financial modeling of solar (and other renewable) projects.

#6 PV*SOL

3‑D PV simulation software that models shading, module orientation, and provides detailed yield and loss analysis.

#7 PVcase

AI‑driven 3‑D design platform focused on utility‑scale ground‑mount projects, with automatic layout generation and terrain handling.

Hybrid optimization model for renewable energy systems, enabling design of grid‑connected and off‑grid solar configurations.

Integrated design tool that creates site‑specific layouts, performs shade analysis and produces procurement‑ready documentation.

Online planner that combines high‑resolution solar resource data with layout tools for quick feasibility studies.

NREL’s free web tool for estimating the energy production of grid‑connected PV systems of any size.

#12 SunDAT

Professional design software for residential and commercial PV systems, offering 3‑D modeling, shading, and detailed reports.

GIS‑based planning suite that helps utilities and developers map solar potential, assess land suitability and generate layouts.

Consumer‑focused calculator that provides quick energy yield estimates and cost projections for residential projects.

Free web tool for designing Tigo‑enabled PV systems, including module layout, optimizer placement and performance forecasts.

#16 OpenSolar

Open‑source platform for creating interactive solar proposals, 3‑D site models and financial analyses.

Cloud‑based design and performance monitoring suite that supports system sizing, shading analysis and real‑time data integration.

Comprehensive clean‑energy management software for feasibility, performance, and financial analysis of solar projects.

Web‑based PV design tool that streamlines layout creation, shade analysis and proposal generation for installers.

High‑resolution solar resource mapping and GIS analysis platform for large‑scale site assessment and planning.

#21 EasySolar

User‑friendly desktop application for quick residential PV design, offering drag‑and‑drop layout, shading checks and instant yield estimates.