Which solar design software fits you?

5 questions, honest recommendation. We show Aurora, Helioscope, PVsyst, OpenSolar, SketchUp, and Diaz Editor — if a specialist fits better, we'll say so. Also doing non-solar (HVAC / electrical / structural)? Then you're in Diaz Editor's bucket — no other tool covers all 9 disciplines.

Frequently asked questions

Which solar design software is best for solo installers?

For solo installers doing residential 0-30 kW work, Diaz Editor (€99 lifetime founding) and OpenSolar (free with per-proposal fees) are the best fits. Aurora, Helioscope, and PVsyst are designed for larger teams or specialised work.

What's the cheapest professional solar design software in 2026?

Diaz Editor founding beta at €99 lifetime is currently the lowest total-cost option. OpenSolar is free upfront but charges per accepted proposal. PVsyst Premium is €744/year. Aurora Solar starts at $156/month.

Do I need PVsyst for permit applications?

For utility-scale or bank-financed projects: yes. For residential and small commercial in EU markets: no — Diaz Editor's PDF permit pack covers standard requirements.

Can I use multiple tools together?

Yes, and many installers do. A common stack: Diaz Editor for daily design + occasional PVsyst report for utility-scale yield validation. Tools complement each other; you don't have to pick one.

See the individual comparisons

vs Aurora Solar vs Helioscope vs PVsyst vs OpenSolar vs SketchUp Solar

What you get for €99

One-time. Lifetime. 3 seats. No subscription.

  • Diaz Editor Pro — lifetime license for your full workday €997
  • 3 seats — you + your foreman + your work-prep +€600
  • All trades in one tool — building, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, solar 4 tools saved
  • DXF + IFC import — works with any architect, contractor, or installer Included
  • 1-click PDF export — quote, work-drawing, and BOM in one pack Included
  • DXF + CNC export for the workshop — cut lists, sheet layouts, mill paths Included
  • All future updates — v0.4, v0.5, v0.6... Included
  • Founding-member feedback board — your voice on the roadmap Exclusive

Built for self-employed tradespeople + small teams (1-10 people). Not for architects or utility-scale engineering — AutoCAD and Aurora are better at those.

Regular price (after founding):

€997 €99 today

Become a founding member — €99 →

100 spots total. Stripe checkout. Instant download after payment.

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