Frequently asked questions.
If you do not see your question answered below, contact us at hello@solarlayout.app.
Getting the apps
What are SolarLayout and BESS?+
SolarLayout Desktop automates utility-scale fixed-tilt PV plant layout design; BESS Desktop sizes, simulates and finances battery-storage projects. Both are Windows applications that take you from a few inputs to a complete, exportable design.
How do I get them?+
They are free to download and try. Get them from the Microsoft Store, or download the .exe directly from this site. Windows 10 / 11, 64-bit.
Do I need to install anything?+
Yes — they are desktop apps for Windows. Install from the Microsoft Store with one click, or run the .exe you download. Then launch the app and start designing.
What file format do I need?+
For SolarLayout, a KMZ or KML (Google Earth) boundary drawn as polygons — exclusion zones for obstacles are read from the same file. BESS takes a 15-minute solar / wind generation CSV.
Requirements & how it runs
What do I need to run it?+
Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit. No special hardware.
Does it need an internet connection?+
The design engine runs locally on your PC, so you can generate layouts offline. An internet connection is only needed for the satellite basemap and to activate your access.
How large a plant can it handle?+
SolarLayout is certified for sites up to 10,000 acres per project.
What's included
What does SolarLayout produce?+
A complete plant layout — table placement, string & central inverters, ICRs, DC/AC cable routing and lightning arresters — plus a bill of materials, a single-line diagram, and energy yield. Export to KMZ, DXF and PDF.
Does it calculate energy yield?+
Yes — probabilistic yield (P50 / 75 / 90) with TMY weather and a monthly generation chart, included.
What does BESS produce?+
15-minute dispatch simulation, DFR compliance, a 25-year financial model (IRR, NPV, payback, DSCR, LCOS), degradation and sensitivity analysis, and a single-line diagram — exportable as a PDF report, plots and a DFR CSV.
Can I get expert engineering help?+
Yes — per-project expert services (detailed design review & consultancy, detailed engineering, and grading & levelling estimation) are available. Reach out from the Contact page.
Access & updates
Is it free?+
The apps are free to download and try on Windows. Install from the Microsoft Store or via the direct .exe and run the complete workflow end to end.
Is my access tied to one machine?+
Your access is activated on the device where you install the app.
How do I get updates?+
Installs from the Microsoft Store update automatically. If you downloaded the .exe directly, download the latest version from this site.
Support
How do I contact support?+
Email hello@solarlayout.app or use the Contact page.
What if I hit an error?+
Contact support with a description of what happened and your project file. We will investigate and respond within 2 business days.