3D Roof Model for PV*SOL Premium made for you

Creating 3D roof models for PV*SOL Premium is no longer optional – it is the foundation of every investment-grade photovoltaic project planning.

In today's energy landscape, photovoltaic system planning has evolved from a simple trade skill to a highly precise engineering discipline. At the center of this transformation is the need to translate complex physical and economic variables into a coherent simulation model – ensuring investment security for all stakeholders.

While conventional 2D planning methods quickly reach their limits with complex roof geometries, varying tilt angles, or significant environmental obstacles, three-dimensional modeling enables a 1:1 representation of reality.

• Solution3D Roof Model from Drone ImageryThe commercial entry point for dependable roof-model deliveries
• FormatsAll Export Formats.obj, .dae, DXF, orthophoto, viewer link

Where low-resolution satellite images were once used for initial estimates, today's methods like drone-based photogrammetry or LiDAR-assisted scans enable centimeter-level precision. This data forms the basis for import into PV*SOL Premium – software specifically designed to calculate shading based on real 3D geometry.

The software calculates the exact shadow cast of every object for each individual time step of the year – from chimneys to satellite dishes to distant church towers or neighboring buildings. This is critical, as shading of individual cells or substrings can massively influence the IV characteristics of an entire module string.

“The algorithmic depth of the software allows simulation of mismatch losses and thermal degradation of modules under specific ventilation conditions.”

— Technical Documentation PV*SOL Premium, Valentin Software

The yield forecast is based on precise determination of irradiance on the tilted plane. The so-called Incidence Angle Modifier (IAM) plays a role here – it describes the loss due to reflection at shallow angles of incidence. The modeling also considers the temperature-dependent power change of modules, expressed by the temperature coefficient PMPP in %/K.

A professionally created 3D model provides the geometric input variables (tilt β and azimuth γ) essential for calculating global irradiance on the module surface.

Payback Period=Investment CostsAnnual Savings (Self-consumption) + Revenue (Feed-in)

Feed-in tariff approx. 8.2 ct/kWh · Grid avoidance approx. 32 ct/kWh

The quality of a 3D roof model stands and falls with the quality of the underlying data. Drone photogrammetry has established itself as the superior method.

Professional systems – especially with RTK support (Real-Time Kinematic) – enable centimeter-accurate capture of the building and its surroundings. The drone flies the object automatically and creates hundreds of high-resolution images from different angles, which are then assembled into a precise point cloud or mesh.

Importing drone data into PV*SOL Premium follows a standardized process. Those who know this process – or outsource it to specialists – gain a decisive time advantage over manual planners.

1. 01

   File Preparation

   The .obj, .mtl and associated texture file (.png/.jpg) must be in the same local directory. File size under 250 MB, vertices under 500,000.

2. 02

   Map Alignment in PV*SOL

   Load the map section of the object to ensure georeferencing and north orientation.

3. 03

   Open Import Dialog

   Select the local .obj file via the "3D Models" menu and start the import.

4. 04

   Map Placement

   Place the model on the map via drag-and-drop and roughly align it.

5. 05

   Precise Alignment

   Double-click on the model to set the azimuth to the exact degree. Critical for correct yield calculation.

6. 06

   Activate Coverage Areas

   Identify relevant roof areas in the model and "activate" them for module placement.

7. 07

   Define Exclusion Zones

   Mark windows, chimneys and areas with structural limitations as exclusion zones.

8. 08

   Module Selection

   Select the desired PV module from the extensive component database.

9. 09

   Automatic Coverage

   Software automatically covers the activated areas considering edge distances and maintenance paths.

10. 10

    Start 3D Shading Analysis

    Start the detailed analysis with one click – result: percentage yield loss per module for each time step of the year.

3D Roof Model as a Service

PV*SOL Premium has supported importing external 3D models since version 2018. The choice of file format affects stability, loading time and quality of shading simulation. Every additional polygon increases computational load, as the software must check for each point whether it lies in the sun's path.

Supported formats in the Voxelia delivery:

• .obj
• .dae
• .dxf
• .dwg
• Orthofoto .png
• Viewer-Link
• DTM PVcase

For solar companies, the key economic question is: build competence in-house or engage specialized service providers? The decision has far-reaching consequences for scalability and cost structure.

Especially for fast-growing companies, outsourcing is a lever for efficient growth. During peak times, hundreds of projects can be processed in parallel without the internal planning department becoming a bottleneck. Professional modelers immediately recognize inconsistencies in source data (e.g., motion blur) and correct them – before flawed planning goes into construction.

• PricingPrice Calculator & Team WorkspaceSingle project from €45 · Volume discount with team subscription
• AboutMethodology & Quality ControlManual review – no automated black box

Precise 3D planning is not an end in itself – it serves to maximize profitability. The costs for photovoltaic systems in Germany 2025/2026 show: planning precision secures long-term yields.

Investment-grade 3D plans are often a prerequisite for financing by banks or funding institutions like KfW (Credit 270). Precise yield forecasts reduce risk for the lender – which can lead to better conditions.

Calculate how much time and money your business saves per month by outsourcing 3D modeling – and when the switch pays for itself.