Choosing the right solar design software is becoming just as critical as selecting your panels and inverters. Residential installers, commercial EPCs or utility-scale developers, having the right digital tools can save time, improve accuracy and drive sales for all.
In 2025, the software ecosystem very saturated. Solar design software now offer AI-driven layouts, LIDAR-assisted and shading analysis. But with so many options, how do you choose?
This guide will help you and show you the best solar design software 2025 has to offer, compare top features and help you select the ideal platform based on your project needs and budget. Plus, we'll show you how even those with low or no credit can still go solar using these tools.
Solar design software is a digital tool that allows solar professionals to model and analyze PV systems before they’re physically installed so that clients can visualize their installation but that’s not the only reason.
These tools are essential for planning accurate PV layouts and determining optimal panel placement and generating proposals for clients.
They help answer key questions like:
Modern solar design software has evolved beyond static drawings. Today’s solar PV layout tools offer interactive 3D modeling, design-to-proposal solar tool integrations, AI-assisted shading analysis, and CRM connections.
Tools like Arka360, Aurora and HelioScope now use LIDAR and aerial imagery to automate key steps making design accessible even for small teams.
Let’s take a closer look at the top solar design tools available in 2025, each tailored for different use cases from high-volume residential sales to large utility projects.
Arka360 combines solar design with sales and team management in a single interface. It’s built for speed, collaboration, and client engagement.
Key Features:
Best For: Solar EPCs and installers focused on increasing close sales rates.
Bonus: Integrates design, proposal and CRM so there’s no need to juggle 4-5 platforms.
Aurora Solar is known for its advanced design capabilities and remote site assessment tools using LIDAR data.
Key Features:
Best For: Residential and small commercial solar professionals who want a highly visual and client-friendly experience.
HelioScope specializes in in-depth production and electrical simulation for commercial and industrial (C&I) projects.
Key Features:
Best For: Commercial designers who need reliable performance simulations and electrical analysis.
PVcase is tailor-made for large-scale developers working on challenging terrain and multi-megawatt ground-mount installations.
Key Features:
Best For: Utility-scale developers and EPCs designing complex solar fields across variable terrain.
OpenSolar offers a lightweight but effective platform for teams who are just starting or want a free solution.
Key Features:
Best For: Startups and local installers who need simple yet professional designs without high software costs.
Visual: A 2D top-down layout with pricing options, system size, and estimated savings.
Choosing the right solar design software starts with understanding your core project needs.
Residential teams often work at high volumes with fast turnaround requirements. Speed, CRM integration, and branded proposal features matter most here. Tools like Arka360 or Aurora Solar offer easy-to-use interfaces and fast proposal sharing, making customer conversions easier.
For larger rooftops and more detailed simulations, commercial projects need accurate electrical modeling and shading analysis. HelioScope fits perfectly due to its 8760-hour simulation and system optimization tools.
Utility projects involve huge layouts across varied terrain. PVcase, with its AutoCAD integration and terrain-aware layouts, provides the depth required to avoid costly errors during construction.
Q1: Which is the best free solar design tool?
A: OpenSolar is a great free option for small teams. It offers simple 2D layouts and basic shading analysis.
Q2: Which software gives reliable yield estimates?
A: Tools like HelioScope and PVcase offer bankable, hour-by-hour (8760h) energy estimates. They're comparable to simulation tools like PVsyst.
Q3: How long does it take to learn these tools?
A: That depends. Arka360 and OpenSolar can be learned in a day. PVcase may take weeks for those unfamiliar with AutoCAD. Most providers offer tutorials or onboarding sessions.
Q4: Is there ROI in using paid software?
A: Yes. Faster proposals, better accuracy, and higher client conversion often justify the cost in just a few projects.
The world of solar design software in 2025 offers specialized tools for every type of installer. Whether you're focused on fast residential quotes or building a 50 MW solar farm, there's a platform built for your workflow.
But selecting and mastering these tools isn't always straightforward.
That’s where Arka360’s solar consultancy services step in. From helping you pick the right software to offering solar design services, proposal creation, and team training, Arka360 ensures your business gets the most out of every platform.
