The challenge
Tackling the complexity of solar panel installation estimates
A company specializing in solar panel installations, sought to improve the way they engage with potential customers by providing a streamlined, online tool. The goal was to give users the ability to estimate the benefits of installing solar panels on their rooftops with precision and ease. This tool needed to eliminate the need for an initial on-site visit by enabling customers to visualize solar panel placements, estimate their energy savings, and calculate installation costs—all remotely.
The challenge was not only to handle complex calculations based on multiple factors—like roof geometry and solar radiation—but also to ensure the tool remained user-friendly for individuals with no technical background.
The solution
Developing an accurate and intuitive solar panel calculator
To address the challenge, we developed a comprehensive tool as a Single Page Application (SPA) using Nuxt.js for the frontend and Laravel for the backend. The tool was designed to seamlessly guide users through the process of estimating solar panel installation benefits, combining location-based data, real-time calculations, and financial projections.
We started by integrating the tool with a geolocation service that converts the user’s address into precise GPS coordinates. Using these coordinates, the tool pulls a high-resolution satellite image of the location. The user is then presented with an interactive map displaying their property.
Once the satellite image was displayed, users would need to select specific areas of their rooftops where they wanted to place solar panels. From these selections, along with user-provided annual energy consumption, the tool is able to calculate solar potential, by querying a external solar radiation API, which provides yearly solar radiation data specific to the location. Using this data, the tool calculates how much energy the solar panels would produce annually, taking into account the roof’s geometry and orientation.
The tool also calculates installation costs and projected savings over 20 years, comparing the energy generated by the solar panels to the user’s current electricity usage. This provides users with a clear picture of their investment’s return.
Once satisfied with the estimates, users can submit their results to the company for a personalized quote. The tool automatically sends roof selections, energy production estimates, and financial details to the company’s system, streamlining the quote process.
The success
The result: streamlining the solar panel estimates process
Overall, the solution we developed not only meets the company’s needs but also provides an exceptional user experience. The tool is fully mobile-friendly, ensuring accessibility across devices. By integrating geolocation, satellite imagery, solar energy calculations, and financial forecasting, it empowers potential customers to make informed decisions about solar panel installation. This comprehensive platform simplifies the process of getting an installation quote, enhances customer engagement, and allows the solar company to provide detailed estimates efficiently.
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