System Advisor Model (SAM) Description
Photovoltaic systems can vary widely, ranging from small installations on residential rooftops to expansive utility-scale projects. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems are utilized for generating electricity and come in various forms, such as parabolic troughs, power towers, and linear Fresnel designs. Projects often involve power purchase agreements (PPAs) that connect the system to the grid at a designated interconnection point, allowing revenue generation through the sale of electricity. Ownership of these projects can reside with a single entity or involve partnerships that may include flip or leaseback arrangements. Additionally, there are instances of third-party ownership where the solar system is situated on the property of the customer, but the ownership lies with a separate developer who compensates the host for the electricity produced, typically through a PPA or a lease agreement. This model not only facilitates the adoption of solar energy but also provides financial incentives for property owners to invest in renewable energy solutions.
System Advisor Model (SAM) Alternatives
CompanyCam is a photo-based solution created specifically for contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere.
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Pylon's intuitive design software allows you to create accurate proposals from anywhere, in less than 2 minutes. Pylon is the only software that allows you to view high-resolution imagery within your app. Pylon's award winning 3D Solar Shading toolkit helps you identify and track shading impacts throughout the year. Pylon's load profile analysis and interval data analysis will help you and your team to better understand customer consumption patterns. Analyze load profiles & interval data. You can close more solar proposals by using interactive Web & PDF proposals and native eSignatures. Fully integrated solar CRM that integrates with your solar design software to convert proposals. Pylon Solar CRM offers 2-way SMS and email communications, team management, lead management and pre-made deal pipelines.
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PV-DesignPro
The PV-DesignPro suite is a dedicated tool for designing and analyzing standalone photovoltaic systems, incorporating hourly simulations that leverage climate data from 239 locations across the U.S. Developed in collaboration with Sandia National Laboratories, this enhanced software builds on the original PV-DesignPro-S model. Version 6.0 is compatible with various Windows operating systems, including Windows 95, 98, NT, Win2000, and Vista, and allows users to simulate the operation of photovoltaic energy systems over the course of a year, adapting to selected climate conditions and system specifications. The Solar Design Studio CD-ROM features three distinct versions of PV-DesignPro: "PV-DesignPro-S" for systems with battery storage, "PV-DesignPro-G" for grid-connected systems without storage, and "PV-DesignPro-P" for water pumping applications. Each version is designed to provide precise and comprehensive insights into expected system power output, ensuring that users can effectively plan their photovoltaic installations. Moreover, the software serves as an essential resource for engineers and designers aiming to optimize the efficiency and performance of solar energy systems.
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RatedPower
RatedPower, a part of Enverus, is a powerful SaaS platform that simplifies the development of utility-scale solar, BESS, and hybrid energy systems. It guides users through every phase—from site identification to final engineering design—making it a go-to solution for developers, engineers, and analysts in renewables.
With RatedPower, users can assess and filter viable land using advanced geospatial data, including energy pricing and grid infrastructure. It supports topographic analysis and helps design solar layouts that consider terrain, interconnection options, and engineering standards. The platform generates bankable energy yield reports, SLDs, and Gen-Tie documentation essential for permitting and financing.
For battery energy storage projects, RatedPower enables both standalone and integrated system designs. Tools for sizing and layout optimization help ensure cost-effective and technically sound configurations. During detailed design, teams can simulate and compare multiple configurations based on GCR, DC/AC ratios, and cost.
RatedPower also enhances collaboration by allowing the export of reports and 3D layouts compatible with tools like PVsyst, ensuring smooth handoffs between teams and stakeholders. It’s a complete, user-friendly solution that accelerates renewable project timelines with precision and collaboration at its core.
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Integrations
Company Details
Company:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Year Founded:
1977
Headquarters:
United States
Website:
sam.nrel.gov/
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Platforms
Windows
Mac
Types of Training
Training Docs
Webinars
Training Videos
Customer Support
Online Support
System Advisor Model (SAM) Features and Options
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