If you're in the solar business, chances are you've heard of solar panel mapping tools. But what are they exactly? And more importantly, why should you be using one?

In this blog post, we'll give you a brief introduction to solar panel mapping tools and explain some of the key benefits of using one.

A solar panel mapping tool, otherwise known as solar panel design software is used to calculate and estimate the amount of sunlight that will reach the panels, as well as the shadowing effects of nearby buildings and trees.

This information is critical in determining the feasibility of a solar potential project and ensuring its long-term success. 

There are many different solar panel mapping tools on the market, but Sunbase Design Software is one of the most popular and user-friendly options.

How Sunbase Design Software Works?

Sunbase Design Software uses high-resolution aerial imagery through map and 3D terrain data to create accurate digital models of existing sites and roofs.

This data is then used to generate a complete Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) report that includes information on things like: 

• Solar insolation 
• Shadow cast by trees or buildings 
• Orientation of the site 
• The slope of the land 
• Azimuth 

This data is critical for planning, designing and to fine tune an effective solar project.

Without accurate data, it would be difficult to know things like how much sunlight a particular site receives or what obstacles might cast shadows on the panels, which are useful for roof size.

Sunbase Design Software makes it easy to get this data so that you can make informed decisions about your solar power project.

Book a demo with Sunbase today to see this software in action and what it can do for your company. We use a sample address to showcase how the design process works helping you decide if Sunbase is the right fit for you or not!

Features of Sunbase Design Software 

In addition to providing accurate data, Sunbase Design Software also offers a number of features that make it easy to use. Some of these features include: 

Easy-to-use interface

The software is designed to be user-friendly so that anyone can use it, even if they don’t have experience with solar panel mapping tools. 

Generate reports

With just a few clicks, you can generate a complete SRA report that includes all of the data you need to make informed decisions about your project. 

Share reports

Reports can be easily shared with clients or other members of your team via email or PDF. Once the design is complete, a report is generated that can be used for permit applications and as a guide for installation contractors.

The report includes a site plan with shading analysis, electrical diagrams, material lists, and cost estimates.

Design Creation Tools

Our software comes with a variety of design creation tools that make it easy to create accurate, professional-looking designs.

For example, our "draw" tool allows you to create custom shapes for your design, while our "text" tool lets you add labels and other text elements.

We also offer a library of pre-made solar components that you can simply drag and drop into your design.

3D Rendering Capabilities

Another great feature of our software is its 3D rendering capabilities. With just a few clicks, you can generate a realistic 3D render of your rooftop solar project that can be used for both internal review and customer presentations.

Automatic Code Compliance Checking

In addition to being easy to use and visually impressive, our software is also code compliant.

This means that it will automatically check your designs against applicable building codes and standards to ensure that they meet all requirements for installing solar panels.

This can save you a lot of time and headaches down the road.

How does Sunbase Design Software work?

Sunbase Design Software is a web-based application that uses high-resolution aerial imagery and three-dimensional terrain data to create accurate digital models of existing sites for project sunroofs.

This data is then used to generate a complete Solar Resource Assessment report that includes information on insolation, and the shadow cast by trees or buildings with renewable energy.

Benefits of Using Sunbase's Solar Panel Mapping Tools 

There are many benefits of using solar panel mapping tools, but here are three of the most important: 

Save time on on-site visits

With a solar panel mapping tool, you can get all the information you need without ever having to step foot on the property. This is especially helpful if the property is located in a different city or state (or even country). 

Increase accuracy

Solar panel mapping tools use data from high-resolution satellite images to create models that are extremely accurate.

Additionally, Sunbase's use of artificial intelligence results in designs that are much more accurate than those generated by traditional methods.

This increased accuracy leads to fewer problems during installation, which in turn leads to happier customers. 

Win more bids

With the increased accuracy and efficiency that comes with using a solar panel mapping tool, you'll be able to put together competitive bids that win you more business. 

Reduced Design Time

One of the biggest benefits of Sunbase is that it reduces the amount of time needed to design a solar system.

That's because Sunbase automatically generates an optimized design based on data inputted by the user (location, shading, etc.).

This not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of human error.

Improved Customer Experience

Another big benefit of Sunbase is that it helps you improve your customer experience.

That's because Sunbase gives you the ability to generate professional-looking proposals and quotes quickly and easily design solar panels - no more waiting around for days or even weeks for your quote.

Additionally, Sunbase's online portal makes it easy for customers to track their progress and see how their system is performing once it's up and running.

Better ROI 

Last but not least, Sunbase can help you achieve a better return on investment (ROI). That's because our software uses cutting-edge technology to maximize system performance and decrease costs in terms of electricity bills, increasing your solar savings given the solar radiation.

Conclusion

Solar panel mapping tools offer many benefits for companies looking to install PV systems.

They can help you target specific rooftops, roof shape, or buildings, find the most efficient placement for panels, calculate energy production for selected sites and estimate the potential savings that could be achieved.

If you're considering a PV installation, a solar panel mapping tool can be a valuable resource.

About Sunbase

Sunbase helps solar companies succeed through a suite of Solar CRM tools like Solar Lead Management Software, Solar Proposal Software, etc.! To book your free demo or an appointment, contact us here.