Solar Software P2 Reference 3 min read Reviewed June 4, 2026

OpenSolar

OpenSolar is a free residential solar design platform competing with Aurora. Lower cost option for installers.

Definition

OpenSolar is a free cloud-based residential solar design platform competing with Aurora Solar. Provides rooftop layout, shading analysis, basic financial pro forma, and customer proposals at no per-user cost.

Key Takeaways

  • OpenSolar = free residential solar design platform.
  • Aurora alternative for cost-sensitive installers.
  • Revenue from hardware purchase commissions.
  • Strong in Australia, India, emerging markets.
  • Feature set growing; less polished than Aurora premium.

Frequently Asked Questions

3 commonly searched questions about OpenSolar.

What is OpenSolar?
Free cloud-based residential solar design platform from OpenSolar (Australia). Aurora Solar alternative for cost-sensitive installers. Funded by hardware partner commissions.
Is it really free?
Yes, for design tools. Revenue model: commissions on hardware purchased through the platform. Premium features (CRM integration, large-team) may have fees.
OpenSolar vs. Aurora?
OpenSolar: free, growing feature set. Aurora: premium, broader integration. Aurora dominates US; OpenSolar strong in Australia, India, and price-sensitive markets.

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