Mapdwell Solar System

An open, online, interactive, and user-oriented tool for rooftop solar photovoltaic remote assessment and cost-benefit analysis

Mapdwell Solar System is an interactive online rooftop solar mapping tool designed, engineered, and developed by Mapdwell LLC. It allows users to precisely estimate rooftop solar electric potential (PV panels) for almost every building in a given city by a simple click or by inputting an address.

Mapdwell Solar System is a remote evaluation tool, based on topographical surveys, information models, and simulation methodologies, and results may be unavailable or inaccurate due to issues including, but not limited to, partial sample obsolescence, excess of vegetation or non-modeled obstructions, incomplete or corrupted databases, incomplete or corrupted GIS layers, undetectable partial obstructions based on survey resolution, and force majeure.

The tool uses high-resolution LiDAR data (Light Detection and Ranging) to create a three-dimensional model of the entire urban topology that accounts for the shape of building rooftops and structures, existing infrastructure, and tree foliage. This model is later analyzed for solar access considering rooftop shape, local weather, and more, using state-of-the-art technology. Calculated irradiation data is generated using technology developed by a team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and licensed exclusively to Mapdwell.

These algorithms account for the most comprehensive and accurate approach available today. Validation testing has shown that our technology yields results with a ±5% margin of error.

Solar System results may be unavailable or inaccurate due to issues including partial sample obsolescence, excess of vegetation or non-modeled obstructions, incomplete or corrupted databases, incomplete or corrupted GIS layers, undetectable partial obstructions based on survey resolution, among others.

The application can now be used for the following cities:

USA

  1. Boston, MA
  2. Boulder, CO
  3. Cambridge, MA
  4. New York, NY
  5. Portland, OR
  6. San Francisco, CA
  7. Washington, DC
  8. Wellfleet, MA

Chile

  1. Lo Barnachea
  2. Vitacura