HOMER Energy Review: Pricing, Features, Pros & Cons (2026)

HOMER Energy review: Global microgrid optimization leader with 250K+ users. Pricing, features, pros & cons, and why commercial solar installers may need more.

Keyur Rakholiya
February 3, 2026

TL;DR Summary

HOMER Energy is a microgrid optimization software now owned by UL Solutions, known for techno-economic analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems. With 250,000+ users in 193 countries, HOMER offers two main products: HOMER Pro (microgrids, off-grid systems) starting at $42/month and HOMER Grid (behind-the-meter storage) at $350/month ($4,200/year).

HOMER excels at complex microgrid modeling with multiple energy sources but lacks visual design tools, electrical engineering capabilities (SLD generation), and proposal features that commercial solar installers need. For EPCs seeking an end-to-end design platform, SurgePV provides design, electrical engineering, and proposals starting at $1,499/user/year (For 3 Users plan).

What Is HOMER Energy?

HOMER Energy is a microgrid optimization and techno-economic analysis platform that originated at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) between 1992-1996. The company was founded in 2009 by Peter Lilienthal, Ph.D., and operated from Boulder, Colorado.

In December 2019, HOMER Energy was acquired by UL Solutions (formerly Underwriters Laboratories), adding the credibility of a globally recognized safety science organization to HOMER's technical pedigree.

Today, HOMER serves 250,000+ users across 193 countries, making it the de facto standard for microgrid feasibility studies and hybrid system optimization. The platform helps engineers and planners determine the optimal configuration of solar, wind, batteries, generators, and other energy sources for projects ranging from remote villages to industrial microgrids.

HOMER Products Overview

HOMER offers three main product lines:

HOMER Pro: Standard microgrid optimization for off-grid systems, island utilities, and unreliable grid scenarios. Analyzes solar, wind, hydro, hydrogen, biomass, batteries, and diesel generators to find lowest-cost configurations.

HOMER Grid: Behind-the-meter optimization focused on grid-connected commercial and industrial facilities. Specializes in demand charge reduction, time-of-use rate optimization, and EV charging station economics.

HOMER Front: Utility-scale hybrid system modeling for large renewable energy projects with grid integration.

HOMER Pro Features

Core Modeling Capabilities

HOMER Pro simulates the operation of microgrids with multiple energy generation and storage technologies:

Solar PV Modeling: Up to 10 arrays with independent tracking configurations, temperature effects, and degradation modeling. Accounts for panel orientation, tilt, shading (basic), and seasonal variations.

Wind Turbine Modeling: Up to 2 wind turbines with hub height adjustments, turbine power curves, and wind resource analysis. Integrates NASA wind speed data for global locations.

Battery Storage: Up to 10 battery banks with support for multiple chemistries (lithium-ion, lead-acid, flow batteries). Advanced degradation modeling accounts for cycle life, temperature effects, and state-of-charge management.

Diesel Generators: Up to 20 generators with fuel consumption curves, emissions tracking, and load-following or cycle-charging strategies.

Grid Connection: Simple grid modeling in the base version, with advanced grid capabilities available through optional modules.

Optional Modules (9 Available)

HOMER Pro uses a modular pricing approach with 9 add-on modules at $6-20/month each:

  • Hydrogen Module: Electrolyzers, fuel cells, and hydrogen storage
  • Hydro Module: Run-of-river and reservoir hydropower modeling
  • Combined Heat & Power (CHP): Cogeneration systems
  • Biomass/Biogas Module: Biomass generators and biogas production
  • Advanced Storage (MKBM): Modified kinetic battery model for detailed storage simulation
  • Multi-Year Module: Model changes over project lifetime (PV degradation, load growth, fuel price escalation)
  • Advanced Load Module: Detailed load profile customization
  • Advanced Grid Module: Complex grid tariffs and bi-directional power flow
  • MATLAB Link: Integrate custom algorithms and analysis

This modular structure means complete functionality requires purchasing multiple add-ons, increasing total cost beyond the base subscription.

Simulation & Optimization

8760-Hour Simulation: HOMER simulates every hour of the year (8,760 hours) with time steps from 1 minute to 1 hour. This granular analysis captures seasonal variations, diurnal patterns, and the interaction between generation sources.

HOMER Optimizer: Proprietary optimization algorithm evaluates thousands of system configurations to identify the lowest net present cost (NPC) or lowest levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The optimizer considers technical constraints like battery state-of-charge limits and minimum generator run times.

Sensitivity Analysis: Test how changes in variables (fuel price, solar radiation, load growth) affect optimal system configuration. Create tornado diagrams and surface plots to visualize sensitivity.

Multiple Scenario Comparison: Run parallel scenarios with different assumptions to compare outcomes side-by-side.

Data & Integration

NASA Database Integration: Direct access to NASA's global climate, solar radiation, and wind speed databases. This is a significant advantage for projects in remote locations where local weather data may be unavailable.

PVSyst and HelioScope Import (HOMER Grid only): Import solar production profiles from PVSyst or HelioScope for more detailed PV modeling, then optimize storage and grid interaction in HOMER Grid.

Component Libraries: Extensive libraries of real-world solar panels, inverters, batteries, wind turbines, and generators with manufacturer specifications.

Financial Analysis

Net Present Cost (NPC): Calculate total lifecycle cost in today's dollars, accounting for capital, replacement, operation & maintenance, and fuel costs.

Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE): Average cost per kWh over project lifetime, enabling direct comparison to grid electricity prices or alternative systems.

Cash Flow Analysis: Year-by-year cash flows showing capital expenditures, operational costs, and potential revenue.

Emissions Tracking: Calculate CO2, NOx, and other pollutant emissions from fossil fuel generators.

HOMER Grid Features

HOMER Grid serves a different market than HOMER Pro—focusing on grid-connected commercial and industrial facilities rather than off-grid microgrids.

Behind-the-Meter Focus

HOMER Grid optimizes solar-plus-storage systems for facilities with existing grid connections. The primary goal is reducing electricity costs through demand charge reduction and time-of-use arbitrage.

Demand Charge Optimization: Many commercial electricity rates include demand charges based on peak 15-minute power draw. HOMER Grid optimizes battery dispatch to shave these peaks, potentially saving thousands per month.

Time-of-Use Rate Optimization: In markets with variable electricity pricing throughout the day, HOMER Grid optimizes when to charge batteries (during low-price periods) and when to discharge (during high-price periods).

Tariff Database

HOMER Grid includes 35,000+ commercial and industrial utility tariffs covering:

  • United States (all states, major utilities)
  • Canada (provincial utilities)
  • Mexico (national grid)

Advanced Tariff Builder: For custom or complex rate structures, users can build tariff models with multiple time-of-use periods, demand charge structures, and seasonal variations.

EV Charging Optimization

Revenue Calculator: Model the economics of EV charging stations with solar and storage. Optimize station sizing, pricing strategies, and demand charge management.

Station Sizing: Determine optimal number of charging ports, battery capacity, and solar array size to meet expected EV demand while minimizing grid impact.

Integration Capabilities

HelioScope PV Data Import: Use HelioScope's detailed shading analysis and production modeling, then import results into HOMER Grid for storage optimization.

PVSyst Data Import: Import PVSyst production profiles for near-bankable solar modeling combined with HOMER's storage dispatch optimization.

Customized Proposal Reports: HOMER Grid can generate reports showing projected savings, optimal system configuration, and return on investment. However, these are technical reports, not customer-ready sales proposals.

Key Difference from HOMER Pro

The distinction between HOMER Pro and HOMER Grid is important:

  • HOMER Pro: Microgrids, off-grid systems, unreliable grids, multiple generation sources (solar + wind + diesel + hydro)
  • HOMER Grid: Grid-connected, demand charge focus, solar + storage optimization, EV charging economics

If you're designing a remote village microgrid with solar, wind, and diesel backup, you need HOMER Pro. If you're optimizing solar and storage for a warehouse with high demand charges, you need HOMER Grid.

HOMER Pricing

HOMER Pro Pricing

HOMER Pro uses tiered subscription pricing with optional add-on modules. All prices are from the official HOMER Energy website (verified January 22, 2026).

Base Plan - Monthly Billing:

  • Price: $65-185/month depending on configuration
  • No modules included
  • Good for: Short-term projects or occasional users

Base Plan - Annual Billing:

  • Price: $42-125/month (billed annually, saves ~35%)
  • Includes 2.5 hours of instructor-led training
  • Good for: Regular users committed to annual contract

Professional Plan:

  • Price: Higher than base (contact for specifics)
  • Includes any 4 modules of your choice
  • Includes 6 hours of instructor-led training
  • Good for: Users needing specialized capabilities (hydro, hydrogen, CHP)

Expert Plan:

  • Price: Highest tier (contact for specifics)
  • Includes all 9 modules
  • Includes 6 hours of instructor-led training
  • Good for: Research institutions or consultancies requiring full functionality

Academic Plans:

  • 50% discount on all tiers
  • Available to accredited educational institutions
  • Same features as commercial plans

Add-On Modules (if not included in plan):

  • Monthly: $10-20/month each
  • Annual: $6-15/month each (billed annually)
  • 9 modules available (hydrogen, hydro, CHP, biomass, etc.)

Training Add-On:

  • $500 for 6 hours of instructor-led training
  • Recommended for new users given learning curve

Volume Discounts:

  • 25% off for 4+ single licenses or 2+ shared licenses

HOMER Grid Pricing

HOMER Grid uses simpler pricing with two tiers:

Standard - Monthly Billing:

  • Price: $665/month
  • Equivalent to $7,980/year
  • All features included
  • Good for: Short-term or occasional use

Standard - Annual Billing:

  • Price: $350/month ($4,200/year total)
  • Saves ~47% vs monthly billing
  • Includes 6 hours of instructor-led training
  • All features included
  • Good for: Regular users, annual commitment

Enterprise:

  • Custom pricing
  • Network licenses for multi-user teams
  • Dedicated technical support
  • Custom training programs
  • Contact sales for quote

Academic:

  • Discounted pricing (separate from commercial)
  • Contact for educational institution rates

Free Trial

HOMER Pro: Free trial available with no credit card required. Duration and features vary.

HOMER Grid: 7-day complimentary trial with sample projects and support access.

Value Analysis

Pricing Transparency: Medium. HOMER publishes starting prices but highest tiers and enterprise pricing require sales contact. The modular approach makes total cost variable depending on needed capabilities.

Feature Completeness: HOMER Pro requires add-on modules for full functionality (hydrogen, hydro, multi-year, etc.). HOMER Grid includes all features at one price. Neither includes design tools, SLD generation, or proposal capabilities.

Cost Predictability: Base plans have predictable costs, but module requirements and training costs can add up. Annual billing provides significant savings.

Total Cost of Ownership: For microgrid specialists, HOMER's pricing is competitive with alternatives. However, users still need separate design software (HelioScope, Aurora) and electrical engineering tools (AutoCAD for SLDs), increasing total software costs.

HOMER vs SurgePV Pricing Comparison

Factor HOMER Pro HOMER Grid SurgePV
Annual Cost $500-1,500+ $4,200 $1,499/user (3 Users)
Visual Design Tools No No Yes (AI roof modeling)
SLD Generation No No Yes (automated, 5-10 min)
Wire Sizing No No Yes (NEC compliant)
Proposals Reports only Reports only Yes (web-based, professional)
Microgrid Optimization Yes (best-in-class) Partial (storage only) Partial
Add-On Costs 9 modules at $6-20/mo each None None (all features included)
Training Costs $500 for 6 hours Included (annual plan) Included

For commercial solar installers, SurgePV provides more relevant capabilities at comparable or lower cost. HOMER's specialized microgrid optimization commands premium pricing for a niche use case.

What Users Say About HOMER

Based on verified reviews from Capterra and TrustRadius (accessed January 22, 2026), HOMER receives generally positive feedback from its target audience—researchers, consultants, and microgrid specialists—while commercial installers report limitations.

What Users Praise

User Quote 1: "HOMER is a user friendly software that can be used effectively in designing renewable energy systems as well as energy optimization." - Capterra User

This sentiment appears frequently. Once users overcome the learning curve, they appreciate HOMER's complete approach to renewable energy system analysis.

User Quote 2: "Homer works with NASA databases to obtain data (climate, solar radiation, wind velocities, etc.) from regions across the world, critical in any energy project." - Capterra User

The NASA database integration is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, especially for projects in remote locations where local weather data is unavailable or unreliable.

User Quote 3: "A variety of renewable energy sources can be used in Homer to simulate microgrids. The fact that Homer makes it possible to conduct technical and financial analysis in the best method, is what matters most." - Capterra User

Users value the ability to model diverse energy sources in a single simulation, combining technical and economic analysis. This integrated techno-economic approach differentiates HOMER from pure design tools or pure financial models.

Top Praised Features:

  1. NASA Database Integration: Global access to climate, solar, and wind data
  2. Complete Energy Modeling: Solar, wind, hydro, hydrogen, biomass, batteries, generators
  3. Techno-Economic Analysis: Engineering and economics combined in one optimization
  4. Flexible Microgrid Capabilities: Model complex hybrid systems with multiple generation sources
  5. NREL Heritage: Academic credibility from National Renewable Energy Laboratory origins

What Users Criticize

User Quote 1: "When compared to other optimizing program on the market, HOMER Pro is somewhat pricey." - Capterra User

Several users note that HOMER's pricing is higher than some alternatives, especially when factoring in multiple add-on modules. The modular pricing structure can make total cost unpredictable.

User Quote 2: "It takes some effort to grasp the program interface." - TrustRadius User

The learning curve is consistently mentioned. While users eventually appreciate HOMER's capabilities, initial onboarding requires significant time investment. The interface is described as functional but not particularly intuitive.

User Quote 3: "Databases could be updated more frequently to have better, more actual data of the current situation in your region." - TrustRadius User

Some users report that component libraries and regional data can be outdated, requiring manual updates or workarounds. This affects the accuracy of local equipment availability and pricing.

Top Criticisms:

  1. Higher Pricing: Considered expensive compared to some simulation tools
  2. Steep Learning Curve: Complex interface takes 4-6 weeks to master
  3. Database Updates: Infrequent updates for some regions and equipment
  4. GUI Usability: Interface could be more modern and user-friendly
  5. No Design Tools: Cannot create visual layouts, roof designs, or panel placement

Review Platform Summary:

  • Capterra: Positive reviews from researchers and consultants, with common themes around NASA data access and complete modeling capabilities
  • TrustRadius: Limited review volume but consistent feedback on learning curve and pricing concerns
  • G2: No dedicated listing for HOMER Pro (search results show unrelated products)

HOMER Pros and Cons

Pros

Global Standard for Microgrids: Industry-leading platform with 250,000+ users across 193 countries. HOMER is the accepted tool for microgrid feasibility studies globally.

NREL Heritage: Originated at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, providing academic credibility and peer-reviewed methodologies. This pedigree matters for grant applications and government projects.

Complete Energy Modeling: Model solar, wind, hydro, hydrogen, biomass, CHP, batteries, and generators in a single simulation. No other platform matches this breadth.

NASA Data Integration: Direct access to global climate, solar radiation, and wind speed databases. Critical for projects in remote locations or developing markets.

Techno-Economic Analysis: Combines engineering simulation with lifecycle cost analysis (NPC, LCOE, cash flows) in one optimization. This integrated approach streamlines feasibility studies.

Storage Expertise: Sophisticated battery modeling includes degradation, thermal effects, and chemistry-specific behavior. Advanced users can employ the Modified Kinetic Battery Model (MKBM) for research-grade accuracy.

Multi-Year Projections: Model changes over project lifetime including PV degradation, load growth, fuel price escalation, and component replacements (with Multi-Year module).

UL Solutions Backing: The 2019 acquisition by UL Solutions adds the credibility of a globally recognized safety science organization, potentially easing financier acceptance.

Cons

Not a Design Platform: HOMER has no visual design tools, roof modeling, or panel placement capabilities. Users must use HelioScope, Aurora, PVSyst, or SurgePV for design, then import into HOMER.

No SLD Generation: Cannot create Single Line Diagrams for permitting. Commercial EPCs still need AutoCAD ($2,000/year) or SurgePV for electrical engineering documentation.

No Wire Sizing: HOMER doesn't calculate wire sizes, voltage drop, or conduit fill. Electrical engineering must be done separately.

No Professional Proposals: Cannot generate customer-facing sales proposals. HOMER Grid offers "customized proposal generation" but these are technical reports, not marketing materials.

No CRM/Sales Integration: Not built for installer sales workflows. No integration with HubSpot, Salesforce, or lead management systems.

Steep Learning Curve: Users report 4-6 weeks to become proficient. The interface is functional but dated compared to modern cloud software.

Higher Price Point: HOMER Pro with modules and HOMER Grid ($4,200/year) are expensive compared to all-in-one platforms like SurgePV ($1,499/user/year for 3 users) that include design, electrical, and proposals.

Database Currency: Some regions have outdated equipment libraries and pricing data, requiring manual updates.

Specialized Use Case: HOMER is overkill for standard commercial solar installations. It's designed for complex hybrid systems, not typical grid-tied solar projects.

No Permit Packages: Cannot generate permit-ready documentation. Installers need separate tools for plan sets, SLDs, and structural calculations.

HOMER vs SurgePV Comparison

Head-to-Head Feature Comparison

Category HOMER Pro/Grid SurgePV Winner
Visual Design No Yes (AI roof modeling) SurgePV
Microgrid Optimization Yes (best-in-class) Partial HOMER
SLD Generation No Yes (automated, 5-10 min) SurgePV
Wire Sizing No Yes (NEC compliant) SurgePV
Proposals Reports only Yes (web-based, professional) SurgePV
Shading Analysis Basic Yes (8760-hour, ±3% vs PVSyst) SurgePV
Storage Modeling Yes (advanced degradation) Yes (standard) HOMER
Carport Design No Yes (native support) SurgePV
Tracker Support Yes (modeling only) Yes (design + modeling) SurgePV
Learning Curve Steep (4-6 weeks) Moderate (2-3 weeks) SurgePV
Pricing $500-4,200/year $1,499/user/year (3 Users) Context-dependent
Best For Microgrids, research Commercial EPCs, installers Context-dependent

When to Choose HOMER

HOMER is the right choice when your work involves:

Complex Microgrid Design: Projects with multiple energy sources (solar + wind + diesel + batteries + grid) requiring optimization across all components.

Off-Grid or Island Utilities: Remote villages, islands, or locations with unreliable grid access where microgrid economics determine project viability.

Research and Academic Studies: University research programs, government feasibility studies, or academic publications requiring peer-reviewed methodologies.

Government Feasibility Studies: Grant applications or RFPs requiring NREL-validated simulation tools and techno-economic analysis.

Hydrogen, Hydro, or Biomass Projects: Projects incorporating technologies beyond solar and batteries, leveraging HOMER's unique modeling capabilities.

Behind-the-Meter Storage Optimization (HOMER Grid): C&I facilities with high demand charges where detailed tariff optimization justifies the $4,200/year cost.

Multi-Technology Comparison: When clients need to see side-by-side comparison of different technology combinations (solar+storage vs diesel+solar vs grid extension).

When to Choose SurgePV

SurgePV is the better choice for:

Commercial Solar Installation Business: EPCs and installers focused on grid-tied commercial solar (50kW-10MW) needing design-to-proposal workflows.

Need Design + Electrical + Proposals: Teams wanting one platform instead of juggling Aurora + AutoCAD + Excel + PowerPoint.

Automated SLD Generation: Commercial installers needing permit-ready electrical diagrams without AutoCAD expertise or $2,000/year licensing.

Commercial Structures: Projects involving carports, trackers, or East-West racking that HOMER doesn't support natively.

Team Collaboration: Cloud-based platform for multi-user design teams, not desktop software requiring individual installations.

India and US Markets: Projects in India or United States where SurgePV has optimized utility databases and regulatory templates.

Eliminating AutoCAD Dependency: Teams wanting to eliminate the $2,000/year per user AutoCAD cost and 2-3 hours of manual SLD work per project.

Can You Use Both?

For some specialized workflows, HOMER and SurgePV can complement each other:

Workflow Example:

  1. Design system layout in SurgePV (visual design, panel placement, shading analysis)
  2. Export production profile and system specs
  3. Import into HOMER Grid for detailed storage optimization and demand charge analysis
  4. Return to SurgePV for SLD generation and professional proposal

However, most commercial solar installers won't need HOMER's specialized capabilities. Standard solar-plus-storage projects are handled completely within SurgePV without requiring HOMER's microgrid optimization.

HOMER Grid can import from PVSyst and HelioScope, but does not currently have direct SurgePV integration. Integration would require manual data transfer.

Use Case Recommendations

HOMER Is Best For

Microgrid Developers: Companies specializing in remote community microgrids, island power systems, or mining operations requiring hybrid diesel-solar-battery systems.

Utility-Scale Hybrid Designers: Large renewable projects combining multiple technologies (solar + wind + storage) with complex grid interaction.

Academic Researchers: Universities studying renewable energy system optimization, testing new algorithms, or publishing peer-reviewed research.

Government Agencies: Departments of Energy, USAID, World Bank, and development organizations evaluating renewable options for electrification projects.

C&I Facility Managers with High Demand Charges (HOMER Grid): Warehouses, manufacturing plants, or data centers with demand charges exceeding $10,000/month where storage optimization ROI justifies HOMER Grid's $4,200/year cost.

Off-Grid Specialists: Consultancies focused exclusively on off-grid and weak-grid markets in developing countries.

Multi-Technology Projects: Projects requiring hydrogen electrolysis, hydropower, biomass, or CHP where HOMER's specialized modules provide unique capabilities.

SurgePV Is Best For

Commercial Solar EPCs: Companies delivering 10-100 commercial projects per year (100kW-5MW) needing streamlined design-to-proposal workflows.

Teams Needing Design + Electrical + Proposals: Installers tired of juggling multiple tools (Aurora for design, AutoCAD for SLDs, Excel for financials, PowerPoint for proposals).

Anyone Needing Automated SLD Generation: EPCs spending 2-3 hours per project creating electrical diagrams manually who want 5-10 minute automated SLDs.

Commercial Structures: Projects involving solar carports, ground-mount trackers, or East-West racking systems.

India and US Market Focus: Companies primarily operating in India or United States where SurgePV has optimized databases and regulatory compliance.

Teams Wanting to Eliminate AutoCAD: Organizations looking to save $2,000/year per user in AutoCAD licensing and eliminate CAD training requirements.

High-Volume Installers Needing Speed: Teams producing 20+ proposals per month where design efficiency directly impacts sales capacity.

Decision Matrix

Your Situation Recommended Tool
Designing standard grid-tied commercial solar SurgePV
Complex microgrid with solar + wind + diesel + hydrogen HOMER Pro
C&I storage optimization with $15K+/month demand charges HOMER Grid
Need design + electrical + proposals in one platform SurgePV
Academic research on hybrid renewable systems HOMER Pro
Off-grid village electrification project HOMER Pro
High-volume installer needing proposal efficiency SurgePV
Government feasibility study requiring NREL methodology HOMER Pro
Commercial EPC eliminating AutoCAD dependency SurgePV
Multi-year project with component degradation modeling HOMER Pro (Multi-Year module)

Homer Energy vs SurgePV: Feature Comparison

How Homer Energy compares to SurgePV across the features commercial EPCs need most.

Feature Homer Energy SurgePV
Automated SLD Generation No (Microgrid modeling) Yes (Automated, 5-10 min)
Wire Sizing Calculations No Yes (Instant, automated)
Carport Solar Design No Yes (Native support (only platform))
Solar Tracker Support No Yes (Single & dual-axis)
P50/P75/P90 Bankability Financial (Hybrid systems) P50/P75/P90 (All three metrics)
Cloud-Based Platform No (Desktop application) Yes (Fully cloud-based)
Integrated Proposals No (Technical reports) Yes (Interactive + PDF)
Pricing ~$1,500-3,000/yr From $1,499/user/yr (All-inclusive)
Onboarding Time 4-6 weeks 2-3 weeks
Support Response Time Email (Documentation) 3 min avg (Response time)

Why Commercial EPCs Choose SurgePV

End-to-end solar design with engineering-grade accuracy, without AutoCAD or tool switching.

  Automated SLD generation in 5-10 min (saves 2+ hours vs AutoCAD)

  Only platform with native carport solar design

  P50/P75/P90 bankability metrics for financiers

  All-inclusive pricing from $1,499/user/year

Book a Demo

Final Verdict: HOMER Energy vs SurgePV

HOMER Summary

Strengths: HOMER is the global standard for microgrid optimization and techno-economic analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems. With NREL heritage, 250,000+ users in 193 countries, and complete modeling of solar, wind, hydro, hydrogen, biomass, and storage, it remains unmatched for complex off-grid and island utility projects. NASA database integration provides global climate data access, and sophisticated storage modeling accounts for degradation and chemistry-specific behavior.

Ideal For: Microgrid developers, off-grid project specialists, academic researchers, government agencies conducting feasibility studies, and C&I facility managers optimizing behind-the-meter storage with significant demand charges.

Limitations: HOMER is a specialized simulation tool, not an end-to-end design platform. It lacks visual design capabilities, electrical engineering features (SLD generation, wire sizing), professional proposal generation, and CRM integration. The learning curve is steep (4-6 weeks), and pricing with add-on modules can exceed $1,500/year for complete functionality.

SurgePV Summary

Strengths: SurgePV provides a complete design-to-proposal workflow combining AI-powered visual design, automated SLD generation (5-10 minutes), NEC-compliant wire sizing, and professional web-based proposals. It's the only platform with native carport design and offers commercial structures like trackers and East-West racking. Transparent pricing starts at $1,499/user/year (For 3 Users plan) with all features included. Onboarding takes 2-3 weeks with average 3-minute support response times.

Ideal For: Commercial solar EPCs and installers needing integrated workflows, teams eliminating AutoCAD dependency ($2,000/year savings per user), projects involving commercial structures (carports, trackers), and operations in India and US markets.

Why Teams Choose It: SurgePV consolidates Aurora + AutoCAD + Excel + PowerPoint into one cloud platform, eliminating 1.5-2.5 hours of tool-switching per project.

Our Recommendation

For microgrid specialists and researchers working with complex hybrid systems combining multiple energy technologies, HOMER Pro remains the industry standard. If you're designing off-grid village electrification, island power systems, or conducting government feasibility studies requiring NREL-validated methodologies, HOMER's techno-economic analysis is unmatched. The $500-1,500/year cost is justified for specialized work where accurate optimization of multiple generation sources determines project viability.

HOMER Grid makes sense for large C&I facilities with demand charges exceeding $10,000/month where detailed storage optimization can unlock significant savings. The $4,200/year investment can pay for itself in a single month of reduced demand charges for the right facility.

However, for most commercial solar installers and EPCs focused on grid-tied solar installations, HOMER is the wrong tool. You need capabilities HOMER doesn't provide:

  • Visual design tools for roof modeling and panel placement Not in HOMER
  • Automated SLD generation for permits Not in HOMER
  • Wire sizing and electrical engineering Not in HOMER
  • Professional customer-facing proposals Not in HOMER
  • Commercial structures like carports and trackers Not in HOMER

SurgePV delivers the complete workflow that commercial installers actually need:

  1. Visual design with AI roof modeling (what HOMER lacks)
  2. Automated SLD generation in 5-10 minutes vs 2-3 hours in AutoCAD (what HOMER lacks)
  3. Wire sizing and NEC compliance calculations (what HOMER lacks)
  4. Professional web-based proposals for customers (what HOMER lacks)
  5. Commercial structures including carports, trackers, and East-West racking (what HOMER lacks)
  6. All features at transparent pricing from $1,499/user/year (For 3 Users plan) vs HOMER's modular pricing

Bottom Line: HOMER excels at specialized microgrid optimization for complex hybrid systems. But for commercial solar businesses delivering standard grid-tied projects, the gap between what HOMER does (techno-economic simulation) and what installers need (design, electrical, proposals) makes SurgePV the more practical choice.

Choose HOMER if you're optimizing microgrids with multiple generation sources. Choose SurgePV if you're building a commercial solar installation business.

Ready to Compare SurgePV with Your Current Workflow?

HOMER excels at microgrid optimization for complex hybrid systems, but if you're a commercial solar installer or EPC needing an end-to-end platform, SurgePV provides what HOMER can't.

What SurgePV delivers that HOMER lacks:

  • Visual design with AI roof modeling
  • Automated SLD generation (5-10 minutes vs 2-3 hours in AutoCAD)
  • NEC-compliant wire sizing and voltage drop calculations
  • Professional web-based proposals (not technical reports)
  • Commercial structures: carports, trackers, East-West racking
  • Transparent all-inclusive pricing from $1,499/user/year (For 3 Users plan)
  • 2-3 week onboarding vs 4-6 weeks for HOMER

Book a 15-Minute Demo to see the complete design-to-proposal workflow in action and understand how SurgePV eliminates the tool-switching between design software, AutoCAD, and Excel that HOMER's specialized focus requires.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is HOMER Pro used for?

HOMER Pro is microgrid optimization software used to design and analyze hybrid renewable energy systems. It simulates the hour-by-hour operation of systems combining solar, wind, batteries, generators, and other sources to determine the lowest-cost configuration.

The software is primarily used for microgrids, off-grid projects, and island utilities where multiple energy sources must work together. HOMER runs 8,760 simulations (one for each hour of the year) to model how the system would perform under real-world conditions, then calculates lifecycle costs to identify optimal configurations.

Typical users include microgrid developers, government agencies evaluating rural electrification options, researchers studying renewable energy systems, and consultancies designing off-grid power solutions for remote locations. HOMER's strength is techno-economic optimization—balancing technical performance with financial constraints to find the best solution.

How much does HOMER Pro cost?

HOMER Pro pricing starts at $42/month with annual billing for the base plan (equivalent to $504/year). Monthly billing ranges from $65-185/month depending on configuration. The base plan includes core microgrid modeling capabilities but no add-on modules.

Professional and Expert plans (which include 4 modules or all 9 modules respectively) cost more but exact pricing requires contacting sales. Individual add-on modules (hydrogen, hydro, CHP, biomass, multi-year, etc.) cost $6-20/month each annually or $10-20/month with monthly billing.

Academic users receive 50% discounts on all plans. Training costs an additional $500 for 6 hours of instructor-led sessions, though annual plans include 2.5-6 hours of training depending on tier.

HOMER Grid (the behind-the-meter storage product) costs $350/month ($4,200/year) with annual billing or $665/month with monthly billing.

What is the difference between HOMER Pro and HOMER Grid?

HOMER Pro and HOMER Grid serve different markets and use cases:

HOMER Pro focuses on microgrids, off-grid systems, and island utilities. It's designed for projects where the grid is unreliable or unavailable. HOMER Pro optimizes across multiple energy sources (solar, wind, diesel, batteries, hydro, hydrogen, biomass) to find the lowest-cost configuration. Typical projects include remote village electrification, island power systems, and mining operations.

HOMER Grid focuses on behind-the-meter systems for grid-connected commercial and industrial facilities. It's designed for projects with reliable grid connections where the goal is reducing electricity costs. HOMER Grid specializes in demand charge reduction and time-of-use rate optimization for solar-plus-storage systems. The platform includes 35,000+ utility tariffs for the US, Canada, and Mexico.

In short: HOMER Pro is for when the grid isn't available or reliable. HOMER Grid is for when you have a grid connection but want to optimize costs through storage and solar.

Does HOMER Pro include solar design tools?

No. HOMER Pro is a simulation and optimization tool, not a visual design platform. It cannot create roof layouts, place solar panels, or generate 3D models of installations.

Users need separate design software like SurgePV, HelioScope, Aurora Solar, or PVSyst to create the physical system design. Once you have a production profile from your design tool, you can import it into HOMER for techno-economic optimization.

HOMER Grid can import production data from HelioScope and PVSyst specifically, but HOMER Pro requires manual input of production profiles or uses simplified modeling based on location, panel specifications, and basic shading assumptions.

For commercial solar installers who need design, electrical engineering, and proposals in one platform, SurgePV provides these capabilities while HOMER focuses exclusively on system optimization and economic modeling.

Can HOMER generate proposals?

No, not in the sense of customer-facing sales proposals. HOMER cannot generate professional, branded proposals for solar customers.

HOMER Grid offers "customized proposal generation" that creates technical reports showing projected savings, optimal system configuration, and return on investment. However, these outputs are analytical reports intended for engineers and facility managers, not marketing materials for prospects.

Commercial solar installers typically need professional proposals with company branding, 3D renderings, utility analysis, financing options, and professional formatting. For this purpose, you would need dedicated proposal software like SurgePV's web-based proposal system, Aurora's sales-optimized proposals, or separate tools like PandaDoc.

HOMER's output is technical analysis and optimization results—valuable for feasibility studies and engineering documentation, but not designed for customer-facing sales processes.

Does HOMER have SLD (Single Line Diagram) generation?

No. HOMER does not include electrical engineering tools like SLD generation, wire sizing, or voltage drop calculations.

For permit-ready electrical documentation, users needing Single Line Diagrams must use separate tools:

  • AutoCAD ($2,000/year): Manual SLD creation, requires CAD expertise, takes 2-3 hours per commercial project
  • SurgePV ($1,499/user/year for 3 Users plan): Automated SLD generation in 5-10 minutes based on system design
  • Electrical consultants: Hire PE-stamped electrical engineering services

HOMER focuses on system-level optimization and economics, not permit-level electrical documentation. This is a significant gap for commercial solar installers who need complete design-to-permit workflows. Aurora Solar also lacks SLD generation, creating the same limitation.

Is HOMER Pro hard to learn?

Users report a moderate to steep learning curve with HOMER Pro. While the software is described as "user-friendly" once mastered, reviewers consistently note "it takes some effort to grasp the program interface" and the GUI "is not much user friendly."

Most users should expect 4-6 weeks to become proficient with HOMER Pro's core capabilities. This learning period includes understanding:

  • How to set up components (solar arrays, batteries, generators)
  • How to configure optimization variables and constraints
  • How to interpret simulation results and optimization outputs
  • How to run sensitivity analyses

HOMER offers paid training ($500 for 6 hours of instructor-led sessions) which is recommended for new users. Annual plan subscribers receive 2.5-6 hours of included training depending on tier.

The learning curve is steeper than modern cloud-based platforms like SurgePV (2-3 weeks to proficiency) but comparable to other technical simulation tools like PVsyst. The payoff is powerful optimization capabilities once you master the interface.

Is there a free trial of HOMER?

Yes. Both HOMER Pro and HOMER Grid offer free trials:

HOMER Pro offers a free trial with no credit card required. The trial provides access to core functionality so you can evaluate whether HOMER fits your workflow. Duration and specific feature access vary—check the HOMER Energy website for current trial terms.

HOMER Grid offers a complimentary 7-day trial that includes sample projects and access to technical support. This allows facility managers to test demand charge optimization and time-of-use strategies with their actual utility rates.

The free trials are valuable given HOMER's learning curve—you can invest time learning the platform before committing to a paid subscription. However, 7 days may not be sufficient to fully evaluate HOMER Grid for complex facilities, and HOMER Pro's trial duration should be confirmed based on your specific needs.

Is HOMER Pro worth the price for solar installers?

For most commercial solar installers, HOMER Pro is not worth the investment because it doesn't address their primary workflow needs.

Solar installers need:

  1. Visual design tools (roof modeling, panel placement) - HOMER doesn't have this
  2. Electrical engineering (SLD generation, wire sizing) - HOMER doesn't have this
  3. Professional proposals (customer-facing, branded) - HOMER doesn't have this
  4. CRM integration (lead tracking, follow-up) - HOMER doesn't have this

HOMER is designed for complex microgrid optimization with multiple generation sources—a specialized use case that represents a small fraction of commercial solar projects.

For standard grid-tied commercial solar installations (rooftop, ground-mount, carports), a platform like SurgePV ($1,499/user/year for 3 Users plan) provides more relevant features: design, electrical engineering, proposals, and shading analysis in one workflow.

HOMER is worth the investment for microgrid specialists, government feasibility studies, academic research, and off-grid developers. But for installers focused on commercial solar, the cost-benefit doesn't justify the subscription.

Who owns HOMER Energy now?

HOMER Energy was acquired by UL Solutions (formerly Underwriters Laboratories) on December 16, 2019. UL Solutions is a global safety science company headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois.

HOMER Energy was originally founded in 2009 by Peter Lilienthal, Ph.D., based on software developed at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) between 1992-1996. The company operated independently from Boulder, Colorado until the UL acquisition.

The UL Solutions acquisition adds credibility and financial backing from a recognized global organization. UL's expertise in safety certification and testing complements HOMER's techno-economic modeling, potentially opening opportunities for integrated services.

HOMER continues to operate under the HOMER Energy brand as part of UL Solutions' renewable energy and distributed generation portfolio.