PVcase is an advanced solar engineering software platform designed to support the planning, design, and optimization of utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems. Built for solar engineers, developers, and EPC professionals, PVcase integrates seamlessly into AutoCAD and other design tools to streamline the solar project lifecycle—from early site assessment to construction-ready designs.
The platform enables precise solar layout design using real-world terrain and component data, improving efficiency, reducing human error, and accelerating project timelines. PVcase is used by solar professionals in over 80 countries and is particularly valuable for companies managing large portfolios of ground-mounted PV systems.
With modules for yield estimation, 3D terrain modeling, electrical design, and integration with simulation software, PVcase has become an essential part of the modern solar engineering workflow.
Features
PVcase offers a suite of interconnected features tailored specifically for utility-scale PV project design and engineering.
One of the core features is its 3D terrain-based layout design. Engineers can create highly accurate solar layouts that account for the actual topography of the site, reducing costly adjustments during construction.
Another key feature is the AutoCAD plugin, which allows users to design PV systems directly within AutoCAD. This eliminates the need to switch between different software environments and ensures full compatibility with engineering workflows.
PVcase supports automatic shading analysis, helping users determine optimal panel placement by simulating how shadows from terrain or other objects will affect energy production.
The platform includes tools for electrical stringing, combiner box placement, and cable routing, allowing engineers to design the full electrical system of a PV plant efficiently.
For performance analysis, PVcase integrates with PV*SOL and PVsyst, enabling users to export site and layout data for yield simulations and bankability studies.
A BIM-ready 3D model output feature helps users prepare their designs for construction teams and stakeholders in formats suitable for Building Information Modeling.
PVcase also includes custom structure templates, letting users create and reuse mounting structure definitions that align with manufacturer specifications.
How It Works
PVcase works as a plugin within AutoCAD, extending the software’s native capabilities to meet the specific needs of solar design professionals.
The process begins with importing the site’s topographical data, which can be obtained from satellite sources, drone surveys, or external GIS systems. Once the terrain is mapped, engineers use PVcase tools to position mounting structures, define spacing, and align panels with optimal azimuth and tilt.
The platform automatically calculates shading losses, taking into account terrain contours and inter-row shading, and helps users adjust layout configurations accordingly.
Engineers can then use the electrical design tools to create stringing plans, assign inverter and combiner box locations, and plan cable routes. PVcase generates bill of materials, detailed engineering drawings, and layouts, which are all exportable in standard CAD and simulation software formats.
By connecting design data with yield simulation tools, PVcase helps users validate performance assumptions and prepare for financial modeling.
Use Cases
PVcase is used by a wide range of professionals involved in the development and engineering of solar power plants.
Solar developers and EPC firms use PVcase for early-stage feasibility studies, layout design, and detailed engineering. The ability to perform terrain-aware design directly in AutoCAD shortens project timelines and increases layout accuracy.
Independent engineers and consultants use PVcase to review designs and ensure compliance with technical standards. The detailed electrical layout features help in validating system integrity and constructability.
Design teams responsible for creating bankable designs rely on PVcase’s shading analysis and PVsyst integration to produce yield estimates that can be used in project financing.
Construction managers benefit from PVcase’s detailed 3D outputs and BIM compatibility, which help translate designs into field-ready documentation.
In markets where land characteristics and permitting are complex, PVcase helps assess different scenarios quickly, reducing development risk and optimizing land use.
Pricing
PVcase does not list public pricing on its website, as its solutions are customized based on company size, project volume, and feature requirements.
To obtain pricing, users must request a demo or contact PVcase’s sales team directly.
Factors influencing pricing may include:
Number of licenses required
Access to specific modules (layout design, electrical design, integrations)
Support and onboarding services
Annual or multi-year subscription commitments
PVcase also offers free trials or pilot programs for qualified customers seeking to evaluate the platform before committing to a paid plan.
Strengths
One of PVcase’s main strengths is its seamless integration with AutoCAD, which allows solar engineers to work within a familiar environment without needing to learn entirely new software.
The terrain-aware layout functionality is highly accurate and significantly reduces design errors caused by uneven topography. This can lead to smoother permitting, fewer changes during construction, and higher energy output.
PVcase’s automation of tasks such as shading analysis, stringing, and layout optimization helps design teams save time and reduce repetitive work.
Another advantage is the software’s compatibility with industry-standard simulation tools like PVsyst and PV*SOL, making it easy to transfer design data for yield modeling.
The software is continually updated with feedback from global users, ensuring it remains relevant in different markets and regulatory conditions.
Drawbacks
PVcase is designed specifically for utility-scale and commercial ground-mounted solar systems, which may limit its usefulness for designers focused on residential or rooftop installations.
The software requires a licensed version of AutoCAD to operate, which adds additional cost and software dependency for companies not already using AutoCAD.
As pricing is not publicly listed, potential users must go through the sales process to understand the costs, which can delay adoption for smaller companies or those exploring multiple solutions.
Users with limited CAD experience may face a learning curve, though PVcase offers documentation and training to support onboarding.
Comparison with Other Tools
When compared to general-purpose solar design platforms like Helioscope or Aurora Solar, PVcase provides more detailed control over engineering-level design and electrical layouts. Helioscope and Aurora are web-based and better suited for conceptual or rooftop designs, whereas PVcase is optimized for CAD-based workflows in utility-scale projects.
Compared to SolarFarmer by DNV, PVcase offers greater integration with AutoCAD and better support for terrain-based designs, while SolarFarmer is known for its yield estimation capabilities.
Tools like BlueSol and PVsyst focus more on energy simulation rather than layout design. PVcase complements these platforms by creating detailed designs that can be exported for accurate simulation.
In terms of CAD-native solar design, PVcase leads in automation, terrain modeling, and electrical planning features tailored for large-scale project requirements.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
PVcase has received positive feedback from engineering firms and solar developers around the world.
According to testimonials on the PVcase website, users appreciate the software’s ability to save time, reduce design iterations, and improve collaboration between design and construction teams.
Customers highlight the precision of terrain modeling, ease of stringing large PV fields, and the ability to quickly update designs as project parameters change.
The company also provides responsive customer support and onboarding assistance, which has been noted by users as a key advantage during implementation.
While PVcase is not listed on consumer review platforms like G2 or Capterra, its reputation in the solar engineering community is strong, and it is widely adopted in Europe, the US, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific markets.
Conclusion
PVcase is a specialized, professional-grade solar design software that streamlines the complex process of utility-scale PV system design. Its terrain-based modeling, CAD integration, and automated electrical planning tools provide a complete solution for solar engineers looking to increase productivity and reduce design risks.
With support for energy simulation, 3D modeling, and construction-ready documentation, PVcase enables teams to work faster and smarter at every stage of the project lifecycle.
For companies managing large portfolios or designing high-capacity PV systems, PVcase offers the flexibility, precision, and efficiency needed to stay competitive in today’s fast-moving solar industry.
