Are you tired of shelling out hundreds every month just to create a clean proposal? We get it. In this OpenSolar Review, you’ll discover a powerful, fully free platform that brings design, CRM, proposals, and remote assessments under one roof—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Imagine ditching multiple subscriptions and still delivering professional quotes in minutes. That’s exactly what OpenSolar promises for small to mid-sized solar teams and independent reps.
Why OpenSolar Review Matters for You
You shouldn’t have to choose between affordability and functionality. OpenSolar flips the script by offering:
- Premium imagery integrations for crisp 3D layouts
- A growing partner marketplace for hardware, permitting, and financing
- Mobile and tablet compatibility so you can quote on the roof
What to Expect in This OpenSolar Review
We’ll walk through:
- How OpenSolar works and what makes it unique
- Real-world benefits (and a few quirks) you’ll actually care about
- A side-by-side look at paid alternatives like Aurora and HelioScope
- Who should embrace OpenSolar in 2025—and who might want something else
Ready to see if OpenSolar can power up your workflow—without powering down your budget? Let’s dive in.
OpenSolar vs Alternatives
Here’s how OpenSolar compares to other top solar software platforms in 2025, with SurgePV emerging as the strongest all-in-one alternative.
Why SurgePV Wins
✅ Full German compliance: EEG, KfW loans, VAT
✅ All-in-one tool: Layout → yield → quote → eSign
✅ Real shading accuracy: LIDAR + AI → module maps
✅ Built for sales and engineering: No switching tools
👉 Book a live demo to see your project modeled with SurgePV in under an hour.
What Is OpenSolar?
Ever wondered if there’s a completely free solar software that actually runs like a pro tool? OpenSolar was born to answer that question. Founded in Sydney by veterans from Sungevity, these solar insiders had seen too many teams struggle—paying steep fees for design, hopping between clunky CRMs, and wrestling with outdated proposal apps.
Their mission was straightforward: democratize clean energy by giving every installer and designer a powerful, zero-cost platform. And with over 25,000 active users in 160+ countries, they’re well on their way.
Unlike traditional vendors that charge per seat or lock key features behind paywalls, OpenSolar funds itself through a partner ecosystem—manufacturers, financiers, and permitting services—so you never pay for the software.
But don’t let “free” fool you. OpenSolar delivers industry-grade tools for:
- 3D site design with high-res imagery
- Built-in CRM and project tracking
- Customizable proposals you can send in minutes
All of it lives in a fully cloud-based workspace, so you can design, manage, and close deals from anywhere. Ready to see how a free tool can outperform costly alternatives? Keep reading this OpenSolar Review to find out.
Key Features: What You Get With OpenSolar Review
Ever wondered if a completely free solar platform could replace your entire tech stack? In this OpenSolar Review, we’ll show you how you can ditch expensive, disconnected tools and run design, CRM, proposals, and more—all from one intuitive workspace.
Cloud-Based Design Engine
You’ll craft detailed system layouts in minutes using HD aerial imagery and interactive 3D tools. While it may not match the precision of specialized software like Aurora or PVsyst, it’s more than accurate for residential and small C&I projects—and fast enough to run live demos in sales meetings.
Proposal Generation
Why juggle PDFs and email attachments when you can share a sleek online proposal? OpenSolar lets you include:
- Embedded financing options that clarify payment plans
- Savings visuals to make ROI pop
- Real-time energy estimates for trust-building accuracy
- E-signature and payment tools so contracts get signed on the spot
Imagine sending a polished quote from your tablet—and hearing “When can we start?” before you even leave the driveway.
Built-in CRM
From that first lead ping to your final invoice, OpenSolar keeps everything in one place:
- Lead capture and management
- Automated SMS and email follow-ups
- Calendar syncing for site visits
- Status tracking and online payment collection
No more flipping between apps—you stay focused on closing deals.
Remote Shade Assessment
Skip the site visit when you can. Built-in shading tools and aerial analysis let you evaluate roof obstructions and tree cover remotely—saving you travel time and boosting your efficiency.
Utility Rate & Incentive Integration
OpenSolar auto-pulls local tariffs, time-of-use schedules, and incentives so your energy savings projections are always spot-on and compelling.
API Access & White-Label Branding
Want OpenSolar to look and feel like your own platform? You can white-label the interface and integrate via open API with your ERP, lead system, or custom dashboard.
Partner Marketplace
Tap into an expanding ecosystem of hardware vendors, permitting services, and financers—all from within OpenSolar. It’s one seamless path from design to install.
User Experience & Interface
Believe it or not, all these features live in a simple, browser-based interface—no downloads required. Mobile and tablet support means you can quote on a rooftop or in a client’s living room without skipping a beat.
Fast, Friendly Onboarding
Most teams get from zero to live quotes in under a day. Guided setup, template workflows, and interactive tutorials mean we have your back every step of the way.
User Experience & Interface
Even with so many features under one roof, OpenSolar feels refreshingly simple. Whether you’re a design veteran or a sales rep who’s never opened CAD, you’ll find the interface intuitive—and you’ll be up and running in no time.
No Software to Install
Have you ever lost track of which version of a tool you’re using? With OpenSolar, that’s a worry of the past. You just open your browser—no downloads, no updates, no conflicts. Need to quote on your tablet while you’re on a client’s roof? It works just as smoothly there as it does on your desktop.
Fast, Friendly Onboarding
Most teams go from zero to live quotes in under a day, and many learn the ropes in a few hours. How? OpenSolar guides you every step of the way, with:
- A simple setup wizard
- Template-based project workflows
- Interactive tutorials and a robust help center
It’s like having a personal trainer for your solar software—without any of the sweaty gym sessions.
One Platform, End-to-End Workflow
Imagine this: a lead hits your inbox, you sketch out a design, customize a proposal, and send a contract—all without hopping between apps. OpenSolar keeps leads, layouts, quotes, and signatures under one virtual roof, so you stay focused on closing deals instead of clicking through menus.
Pros & Cons of OpenSolar Review
When we break it down, OpenSolar packs a lot of punch for a free platform—but it isn’t perfect for every scenario. Here’s the real talk on what you’ll love and where you might hit a snag.
Pros
100% Free Core Platform
You read that right—no licenses, no per-seat fees, no contracts. You get unlimited access to design, proposals, CRM, and e-signatures without ever needing a credit card.
End-to-End Sales Stack
Why juggle three or four apps when one will do? OpenSolar combines site design, remote shading, proposal generation, CRM, and e-signatures into a single cloud workspace—replacing multiple paid tools in one swoop.
Speed from Lead to Close
With interactive quotes and built-in finance options, you can move from first contact to signed contract in under an hour. Imagine closing a deal before your competitor even sends a follow-up email.
Global Accessibility
Whether you’re quoting in dollars, euros, or rupees, OpenSolar has you covered. Localized utility rates, multi-currency support, and regional incentive data make it a go-to for teams across the U.S., Europe, India, Australia, and beyond.
Beginner-Friendly UX
Even if you’ve never touched a design app, you’ll pick up OpenSolar in just a few hours. Its intuitive interface is ideal for new hires, solo reps, or anyone who prefers clicking over coding.
“It’s beautiful and efficient. Everything from the proposal design to the CRM is ridiculously easy to use.” – Google Play Reviewer
Cons
Simplified 3D & Electrical Modeling
If you need bank-grade LIDAR analysis or NEC-compliant stringing, you’ll find Aurora or PVsyst more precise. OpenSolar leans into speed and ease, not deep technical detail.
Web-Only Platform
No offline mode means that in low-connectivity areas, you might be left waiting for pages to load. If you’re installing in remote locations, keep backup plans handy.
Not Ideal for Utility-Scale
OpenSolar shines for residential and light commercial projects. When you’re tackling megawatt-scale arrays or complex interconnections, you’ll likely need a more robust electrical modeling solution.
Data Sharing Concerns
Because it’s free, OpenSolar monetizes through its partner ecosystem. Some users wonder how their customer leads might be shared or used behind the scenes—so read the privacy details carefully.
CRM Limitations
The built-in CRM is great for small teams, but it can’t match the customization of standalone giants like HubSpot or Salesforce. If you need deep CRM workflows, you may still plug in an external tool.
“Great for smaller teams, but once we needed utility layouts and offline access, we had to explore other tools.” – Capterra Reviewer
OpenSolar Pricing (2025)
- Unlimited users and projects
- No licensing or subscription fees
- Monetization comes from optional add-ons and an integrated partner ecosystem (hardware, financing, permitting)
Real User Feedback & Reviews
OpenSolar is consistently praised for value, ease of use, and proposal quality.
From G2:
“Very useful… design, presentation, and sale—all in one platform.” – Martín Eduardo
“Accuracy is key… and it’s easy to change panels and recalculate.” – Lakshman B.
From Reddit:
“I’d choose OpenSolar over them even if OpenSolar charged $250/month.”
– Installer with experience using Aurora and HelioScope
From App Users:
- 4.7+ ratings on Google Play and the App Store
- Highly praised for clean UI, CRM simplicity, and mobile responsiveness
- Some critique on satellite image resolution, especially in rural or developing regions
Final Verdict: Is OpenSolar Worth It in 2025?
If you’re part of a small to mid-sized solar team, our OpenSolar Review shows that this platform is one of the best bargains out there. And we don’t mean “cheap”—we mean complete and powerful, all at zero cost.
You get everything you need to hit the ground running:
- A modern design interface that’s fast to learn
- A fully integrated CRM so leads never slip through the cracks
- Instant proposals with embedded financing to speed up approvals
- Global tariff and incentive data for accurate, location-specific quotes
- API access and a growing partner marketplace for hardware, permitting, and financing
For many installers and EPCs, OpenSolar covers the entire workflow—design, proposal, CRM, and more—without ever touching your software budget.
But let’s be real: OpenSolar isn’t for everyone. If your projects demand complex electrical modeling, utility-scale precision, or reliable offline CAD workflows, you might outgrow it quickly. In those cases, paid platforms like Aurora, PVcase, or SurgePV offer deeper technical features.
Our Recommendation
Start with OpenSolar. Get your process dialed in, see how it fits your team, and only consider upgrading if your requirements surpass its capabilities.
Call to Action
Still not sure? OpenSolar shines for sales-focused pros and growing teams looking for a no-cost, all-in-one platform. It’s free, easy to learn, and scales beautifully for residential installs.
If you find yourself bumping into its limits—or if you crave more customization, advanced collaboration, or true mixed-use (residential + commercial) support—then SurgePV could be the better long-term choice.
👉 Book your free SurgePV demo today
No pressure. No obligation. Just clear answers and real results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenSolar really free?
Absolutely! You get unlimited access to core design, CRM, and proposal tools—completely free, for as many users and projects as you need. No hidden fees, no trial periods.
How does OpenSolar make money?
Good question! OpenSolar stays free by partnering with hardware suppliers, financiers, and permitting services. We don’t charge you for the software—you benefit from a thriving partner ecosystem instead.
Can I use OpenSolar for utility-scale or large projects?
OpenSolar shines for residential and light commercial jobs. If you’re tackling megawatt-scale arrays or highly complex interconnections, you’ll want a more specialized tool with deep electrical modeling.
Do I need an internet connection to use OpenSolar?
Yes—OpenSolar lives entirely in your browser. You’ll need a stable connection to design, generate proposals, and track projects. Think of it like your favorite web app—always up to date, always at your fingertips.
Which countries does OpenSolar support?
OpenSolar is truly global. You can quote in dollars, euros, rupees, and more, with localized utility rates and incentive data for regions including the U.S., UK, EU, Australia, and India.
Still have questions? Drop us a line or dive into our help center for more details!
