PV*SOL
Solar design software
CAD software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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€195.00 per 3-month named-user license
Free Trial
Free version unavailable
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Medium
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- Professional services (engineering, legal, consulting, etc.)
- Energy and utilities
- Construction
What is PV*SOL
PV*SOL is a desktop software application for designing and simulating photovoltaic (PV) systems, with a focus on energy yield analysis and system configuration. It is used by PV designers, engineers, and installers to model rooftop and ground-mounted systems, including shading impacts and component selection. The product combines 2D/3D layout tools with performance simulation and reporting workflows oriented to project planning and documentation.
Integrated 3D shading simulation
PV*SOL includes 3D scene modeling to evaluate shading and its impact on PV yield. This supports more detailed analysis than basic 2D-only workflows for complex rooftops and nearby obstructions. It helps users connect physical layout decisions to energy production results within the same tool.
Component-based system configuration
The software supports configuring PV systems using selectable components such as modules, inverters, and mounting arrangements. This enables scenario comparisons across different equipment and design choices. It is useful for early-stage feasibility and design iteration where equipment selection affects performance and constraints.
Desktop workflow and reporting
PV*SOL runs as a desktop application, which can suit organizations that prefer local execution and file-based project management. It provides outputs used for project documentation, including simulation results and design artifacts. This can reduce reliance on separate tools for producing deliverables from the modeled system.
Less suited to cloud collaboration
As a desktop-first product, PV*SOL typically offers fewer built-in capabilities for multi-user, browser-based collaboration than cloud-native design platforms. Teams may need additional processes for version control, sharing, and review. This can add friction for distributed sales-to-design handoffs.
CAD depth is limited
While PV*SOL includes layout and 3D modeling features, it is not a full general-purpose CAD system. Users with advanced drafting standards, complex construction documentation needs, or deep BIM/CAD integration may still require external CAD tools. This can lead to duplicated work between design and drafting environments.
Learning curve for detailed modeling
Accurate 3D scenes, shading setups, and system configurations require careful input and validation. New users may need time to understand modeling assumptions and simulation settings to avoid inconsistent results. This can slow initial adoption compared with more guided, template-driven tools.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| PV*SOL (one-year named-user license) | €585.00 per year (plus VAT) | Dynamic simulation for PV systems (no 3D visualization). License is user-based (valid on multiple devices but not simultaneously). Trial version available. |
| PV*SOL (3-month named-user license) | €195.00 per 3 months (plus VAT) | Short-term license for project work; same feature set as one-year PV*SOL. |
| PV*SOL premium (one-year named-user license) | €845.00 per year (plus VAT) | Includes 3D visualization and detailed shading analysis, LIDAR/CAD import and extended modeling capabilities. |
| PV*SOL premium (3-month named-user license) | €285.00 per 3 months (plus VAT) | Short-term license for premium features (3D, advanced shading). |
| Student version — PV*SOL premium (180 days) | €90.00 one-time (plus VAT) | Student-only offer (180-day full-featured license; not for commercial use). |
| Extensions / Renewals | Varies (e.g., PVSOL premium extension €802.75; PVSOL extension €555.75) | Shop lists extension/renewal SKUs and discounted extension prices for multi-license orders. |
Notes: All prices and license types sourced directly from Valentin Software's official product pages and online shop; listed prices are shown "plus VAT" on the vendor site. Trial availability: official 30-day trial exists (trial limits apply: printing and saving project report disabled).
Seller details
Valentin Software GmbH
Berlin, Germany
1988
Private
https://valentin-software.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/valentin-software-gmbh/
