OpenSolar
OpenSolar is a comprehensive solar design and sales software providing installers with high-definition 3D modeling, accurate shading analysis, and integrated financing tools to streamline the entire project lifecycle.
PVsyst
PVsyst is a specialized solar design software used by engineers and researchers to accurately simulate, model, and analyze the energy production of photovoltaic systems for various weather conditions.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | OpenSolar | PVsyst |
|---|---|---|
| Website | opensolar.com | pvsyst.com |
| Pricing Model | Free | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $55/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2017 | 1992 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia | Satigny, Switzerland |
Overview
OpenSolar
OpenSolar provides you with a complete end-to-end toolkit to design, sell, and manage solar projects from a single interface. You can create high-definition 3D site models using advanced imagery and conduct precise shading analysis to ensure system accuracy. The platform allows you to generate professional, interactive proposals that include multiple system options and integrated financing, helping you close deals faster while providing a modern experience for your customers.
Beyond sales, you can manage your entire workflow from lead capture to installation using the built-in CRM and project management features. Because the software is supported by hardware and finance partners, you get access to a sophisticated suite of tools without paying monthly subscription fees. It is an ideal solution for solar installation businesses of all sizes looking to scale their operations and reduce overhead costs.
PVsyst
PVsyst is a technical modeling tool designed to help you predict the energy yield of solar photovoltaic systems. You can import meteorological data from various sources and define specific system components like modules, inverters, and cabling to create a highly accurate digital twin of your project. The software handles everything from small residential setups to massive utility-scale power plants, providing you with the detailed reports needed for financial planning and technical validation.
You can perform complex shading analysis using a 3D CAD environment to see exactly how nearby objects impact your energy production. It allows you to account for thermal losses, horizon shading, and spectral effects to ensure your simulations match real-world performance. Whether you are an engineer designing a grid-connected system or a researcher studying stand-alone installations, you get the precision required for bankable solar energy assessments.
Overview
OpenSolar Features
- 3D Design & Modeling Create accurate 3D solar designs with high-resolution imagery and automated shading calculations to ensure peak system performance.
- Interactive Proposals Send digital, mobile-ready proposals that allow your customers to select options and sign contracts online in real-time.
- Integrated Financing Access various financing products directly within your proposals so your customers can get instant credit approvals.
- Built-in CRM Track your leads and manage customer relationships throughout the entire sales funnel without needing external database tools.
- OpenApi & Webhooks Connect your existing business tools and automate data flow between OpenSolar and your other critical software systems.
- Mobile App Manage your projects and update site details from the field using native apps for your smartphone or tablet.
PVsyst Features
- System Simulation. Model your entire PV system by defining modules, inverters, and strings to calculate hourly energy distribution and losses.
- 3D Shading Tool. Build a 3D representation of your installation site to visualize and calculate the impact of shadows on your panels.
- Meteo Data Management. Import weather data from Meteonorm, NASA, or your own sensors to simulate performance under specific local climate conditions.
- Grid-Connected Modeling. Design large-scale solar farms and calculate the injected energy while accounting for grid limitations and ohmic losses.
- P50/P90 Analysis. Evaluate the financial risk of your project by generating probability reports that show expected yields under different scenarios.
- Bifacial Modeling. Calculate the additional energy gain from bifacial modules by simulating ground reflections and back-side irradiance accurately.
- Pumping & Stand-alone. Design off-grid systems and solar water pumping stations with specialized tools for battery storage and hydraulic needs.
- Detailed Loss Tree. Identify exactly where you are losing energy with a comprehensive breakdown of thermal, wiring, and mismatch losses.
Pricing Comparison
OpenSolar Pricing
- Unlimited users and seats
- Unlimited projects and designs
- High-definition 3D modeling
- Interactive digital proposals
- Integrated CRM and lead tracking
- Mobile app access
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Direct financing integrations
- Manufacturer-verified exhibits
- Automated hardware ordering
- Custom branding options
- Priority partner support
PVsyst Pricing
- Full simulation capabilities
- Unlimited project modeling
- Access to PV component database
- 3D shading analysis
- Technical support included
- Software updates for one year
- Everything in Professional, plus:
- Discounted rate for educational use
- Restricted to non-commercial research
- Full feature set access
- Annual renewal required
Pros & Cons
OpenSolar
Pros
- Completely free to use with unlimited user seats
- Highly accurate 3D modeling and shading analysis
- Professional interactive proposals impress potential customers
- Frequent software updates and new feature releases
- Excellent mobile functionality for field sales teams
Cons
- Initial setup and configuration takes significant time
- Steep learning curve for advanced design features
- Occasional slow loading times with high-res imagery
PVsyst
Pros
- Industry standard for bankable solar energy reports
- Extensive database of global solar modules and inverters
- Highly accurate shading and loss calculations
- Regular updates to include new solar technologies
- Detailed PDF reports ready for project investors
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern web apps
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Requires Windows environment or virtual machine
- 3D CAD tool can be difficult to master