Project Sunroof, Google’s Cool New Tool, Will Determine If Solar Panels Are A Good Fit For Your Home

Project Sunroof, Google’s Cool New Tool, Will Determine If Solar Panels Are A Good Fit For Your Home

Project Sunroof calculates your roof’s solar potential using high-resolution Google Earth data to calculate the usable sunlight per year and provides an estimate of the potential energy savings.

Simply enter an address and Project Sunroof calculates the number of hours of usable sunlight per year based on weather patterns and the total square feet available for solar panels, which is based on 3D modeling of your roof and nearby trees. It also includes an estimated net savings and a list of (sponsored) solar providers. You can even fine tune the estimate by entering your average monthly electric bill. The project is currently available in the San Francisco Bay area, Central California and Greater Boston Massachusetts.

The app was created by engineer Carl Elkin who developed the tool as a 20% project, an internal initiative at Google that allows employees to dedicate 20% of their time on side projects.

The app is a natural addition to real estate providing a buyer or seller with information regarding the investment of solar panels and potential cost savings presenting real value.
via Real Estate of Things