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Building-Level Solar Analysis
Solar Analysis uses Google Solar to estimate the solar potential of a rooftop or site: system size, panel count, roof area, annual output and CO₂ offset, right next to the network that would connect it. Pro Enterprise
How to Run a Solar Analysis
- Zoom to the building you are interested in. A satellite basemap makes it easier to pick the right roof.
- Choose Solar Analysis from the map tools.
- Click the rooftop or site. Network Map asks Google Solar for the building closest to the point you clicked.
- The Solar Analysis panel opens with the results. Its subtitle shows the coordinates you clicked.
What the Results Show
| Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
| System size (kW) | The estimated maximum solar system the usable roof can hold |
| Annual output (kWh) | Estimated yearly energy from that system |
| Panels | The number of panels that fit |
| Roof area (m²) | The roof area that is usable for panels |
| Max sunshine (hr/yr) | Sunshine hours per year at the best part of the roof |
| CO₂ offset (kg/yr) | Estimated yearly emissions avoided compared with grid electricity |
| Roof segments | How many separate roof planes Google identified |
| Imagery quality and Imagery date | The quality and date of the aerial imagery behind the estimate |
| Region | The area the building is in |
Reading the Results
- Check Imagery date: if the imagery predates a new building or extension, the estimate describes the old roof.
- Check Imagery quality: lower-quality imagery gives less certain estimates.
- If the panel shows a different building from the one you meant, click closer to the centre of the roof.
- Results are estimates for screening. Use a detailed design and a site visit before quoting or sizing a system.
Combine With the Network
- Right-click near the building and use Nearby Layers to switch on the distribution network, such as poles, feeders and zone substations.
- Use Measure Distance to see how far the building is from the nearest line or substation.
- Click the nearest assets to see their attributes below the map.
- For a larger system, run a Hosting Capacity or Connection Study in Engineering Studies to test the connection. See Single-Line Diagrams and Engineering.
Coverage
Google Solar covers many, but not all, buildings and countries. If no building data is available at a location, the panel shows an error with Retry and Close; try a nearby building or another location.
Use Cases
- Commercial and industrial rooftops: estimate system size before a site visit.
- Data centers and large loads: estimate how much on-site generation a roof could supply.
- Community batteries and microgrids: combine rooftop estimates with System Feasibility in Project Modelling.
- Network planning: see where rooftop potential is high relative to the local distribution network.
Related Guides
Can't find what you need? Email support@networkmap.energy or call 1300 936 116. Sign in to Network Map.
