System Advisor Model (SAM) is a free, NREL‑developed tool for performance modeling and financial analysis of renewable energy projects. Below is a curated list of 20 alternative software solutions that offer solar design, shading analysis, energy yield simulation, and proposal generation capabilities for installers, engineers, and developers.
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Cloud‑based solar design platform with 3‑D modeling, automatic shading analysis, precise energy production estimates, and client‑ready proposals.
Web‑based PV system design tool featuring fast layout creation, detailed performance modeling, and integrated sales proposals.
Comprehensive desktop software for PV system sizing, shading analysis, and detailed energy yield simulations, widely used by engineers.
3‑D simulation tool for designing and optimizing PV plants, offering shading analysis, loss diagrams, and financial evaluation modules.
Integrated design suite for SolarEdge‑based projects, providing layout tools, performance modeling, and automatic inverter selection.
Hybrid optimization model for renewable microgrids, combining solar, storage, and diesel/gas generators with financial analysis.
Free, web‑based solar proposal software that automates site analysis, system sizing, and creates branded proposals with financing options.
Desktop application for rapid PV layout creation, shading analysis, and export of CAD files for permitting.
Online tool offering high‑resolution solar resource data, detailed yield simulations, and project feasibility reports.
Advanced version of PVSOL with additional modules for battery storage, tracking systems, and detailed financial analysis.
All‑in‑one platform for design, sales, and monitoring, featuring automated shading analysis and customizable proposal templates.
Consumer‑focused design tool that generates site‑specific proposals, financing options, and performance forecasts.
Web‑based solar design and sales platform with real‑time shading analysis, 3‑D modeling, and integrated CRM.
Enterprise‑grade design software that combines GIS data, automated layout, and detailed financial modeling for large‑scale projects.
Design and proposal tool focused on grid‑connected PV systems, offering performance simulation and quick export to CAD.
Cloud platform for solar and storage design, featuring AI‑driven layout optimization, yield prediction, and proposal generation.
Integrated design suite for Sungevity installers, providing automated site analysis, system sizing, and client‑ready proposals.
User‑friendly proposal builder with built‑in design engine, shading analysis, and financing calculators.
3‑D modeling environment enhanced with PV layout plugins for shading analysis and energy yield estimation.
Specialized design software for Tigo’s optimizer and monitoring solutions, offering layout planning and performance modeling.