Heatmaps on OpenSolar

Summary

The Heatmap feature in OpenSolar allows you to instantly visualize which areas of a site receive the most and least sunlight, without needing to define roof facets first. By toggling on the shade view in 3D design mode, you can identify optimal panel placement zones and understand shading impacts based on real solar exposure. The heatmap is fully interactive, works with panel placement, and can even be included in customer-facing proposals for greater transparency.

Using the Heatmap Feature in OpenSolar

OpenSolar’s Heatmap tool provides an instant visual representation of solar potential across your project site—no need to define roof facets first. With a single click, you can see which areas receive the most and least sunlight, helping you optimize panel placement and educate your customers about shading impacts.

What the Heatmap Shows

The heatmap uses a yellow-to-red color spectrum to indicate insolation levels:

• Bright Yellow: High solar exposure — ideal for panel placement

• Dark Red: Low solar exposure — heavily shaded or low-insolation areas

It accounts for:

• 3D modeling of shade from surrounding structures and obstructions

• The intensity and angle of sunlight throughout the day and year

 Result: A powerful tool for identifying the most productive areas for solar generation on any surface—rooftop, ground mount, or canopy.

How to Use the Heatmap

1. Go to the Design tab of your project

2. Ensure you're in 3D Mode

3. Click the shade icon in the bottom right corner of the screen

This will instantly switch your view to the Heatmap overlay.

 Tip: You don’t need to draw roof facets first—just click and visualize.

Toggling Between Views

You can switch between:

• True-color view (realistic roof imagery)

• Heatmap view (solar exposure overlay)

Simply toggle the shade icon on or off in the bottom right corner of the design interface.
You can place panels in either view—functionality remains the same.

Adding Heatmap to Proposals

If you’d like to visually demonstrate the impact of shading in your customer-facing proposal, you can:

• Include a Heatmap snapshot directly in the proposal

• Use it to explain how shading influenced system design, placement, and estimated production

 Pro Tip: This is a great way to build trust and transparency with customers by showing that your recommendations are based on real-site conditions.