OpenSolar vs SAM (System Advisor Model)

A side-by-side comparison of pricing, ratings, target audience, integrations, and key features to help solar businesses choose between OpenSolar and SAM (System Advisor Model).

	Sponsored OpenSolar Free end-to-end solar sales platform	SAM (System Advisor Model) Free performance and financial modeling from NREL
Rating	4.6(245)	4.7(58)
Pricing	Freemium	Free
Free Trial	Yes	Yes
Target Audience	ResidentialCommercial	ResidentialCommercialUtility
Key Features	Free core platform with no per-seat licensing cost Built-in CRM for lead and pipeline management Integrated financing and incentive calculators 3D satellite-based design tools	Free and open-source performance modeling Detailed financial modeling for PV and storage Weather data integration for accurate yield estimates Widely used standard in academic and government analysis
Integrations	SalesforceStripeSolarEdge APIEnphase APIXeroZapier	PVsystSolargis API
	Visit Website	Visit Website

Quick takeaways

Rating: SAM (System Advisor Model) has the edge.
Review volume: OpenSolar has the edge.
Integration breadth: OpenSolar has the edge.

These takeaways summarize the data above and aren't a recommendation. See our ranking methodology for how listings and ratings are compiled.

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