At Pure Power, our project managers and engineers utilize a range of photovoltaic simulation tools, including PVsyst, HelioScope, and the System Advisor Model (SAM), developed by PVsyst, Folsom Labs, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), respectively. By leveraging multiple complementary platforms, we ensure that we choose the most suitable software for each specific project—whether it's based on the use case, target audience, or stage of development. In this post, I’ll walk through how, when, and why we prefer PVsyst over HelioScope or SAM.
**PVsyst: The Industry Standard for Bankability**
PVsyst is widely regarded as the go-to tool for bankable solar projects and performance assessments. Its reputation stems from its robust capabilities and the trust stakeholders place in its results. Accurate energy modeling is critical for financial models, capacity testing, and performance reporting, but accuracy isn't just about the software—it’s also about how it’s used. Over time, experience and repeated application build confidence in the results.
As an owner's engineer, Pure Power has run thousands of performance models and analyzed countless operational systems. This process involves collaboration with developers, EPCs, OEMs, engineers, researchers, and financiers—each bringing their own insights and lessons learned. By sharing best practices and using data-backed inputs, we ensure our models align with industry standards and real-world performance.
PVsyst has been around since 1992, when Andrés Mermoud, a physicist from the University of Geneva, began developing the software. A major rewrite in 1999 introduced a graphical interface, and over two decades, PVsyst has evolved to support U.S. projects with regular updates. This long-standing presence in the industry has led to widespread adoption, especially among financiers who rely on PVsyst-based models to underwrite billions in solar deals.
One of PVsyst’s key strengths is its granular analysis of losses—such as module quality, string mismatch, soiling, wiring, inverter, transformer, and auxiliary losses. It also simulates system degradation and aging, which are crucial for long-term performance and economic planning. With features like P50 and P90 analyses, PVsyst provides statistical confidence in energy yield predictions. Version 7.0, released in 2020, added support for 64-bit systems, enabling more complex simulations and larger project capacities.
**HelioScope: Ideal for Early-Stage Design**
HelioScope, developed by Folsom Labs, is gaining traction as a user-friendly tool for early-stage project design. Unlike PVsyst, it offers an intuitive interface with Google Earth and SketchUp integration, making it accessible even to non-engineers. While it uses similar core calculations as PVsyst, it’s better suited for preliminary designs, remote site assessments, and quick energy models.
It’s particularly useful for residential projects where shading and energy models meet regulatory requirements. However, for large-scale commercial or utility projects, PVsyst remains the standard due to its depth and precision. HelioScope helps reduce soft costs and streamline operations, making it a valuable pre-sales tool.
**SAM: A Free Tool for Research and Policy**
SAM, developed by NREL, is a free techno-economic modeling tool that supports a wide range of renewable technologies, including PV and storage. Originally called the Solar Advisor Model, it was designed for internal research but later expanded to include various energy systems. While not typically accepted for project financing, SAM is trusted by researchers, policymakers, and program administrators for its validated approach.
For example, the National Electrical Code now references SAM’s methodology for calculating maximum PV current in systems over 100 kW. This highlights its role in supporting industry standards and regulatory compliance.
In summary, while each tool has its place, PVsyst remains the gold standard for detailed, bankable solar modeling, especially for large-scale projects. HelioScope excels in early design, and SAM serves as a powerful, free resource for research and policy. At Pure Power, we choose the right tool for the job, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and success across all stages of solar development.
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