NREL's System Advisor Model (SAM) is free desktop software calculating performance and financial metrics for renewable energy systems including utility solar.
System Advisor Model (SAM)
by NREL (US Dept of Energy)
Overview
What is System Advisor Model (SAM)?
SAM is NREL's desktop renewable energy performance and financial modeler.
- Primary use case
- Solar Energy Design & Management
- Best for
- Comprehensive technical modeling and financial analysis of renewable energy systems.
- Pricing
- non-profit
- Platforms
- Web
- Official website
- sam.nrel.gov
- Last verified
- Jul 1, 2026
Key Features
- NREL Desktop Simulator
- Financial Renewable Metrics
- Utility Solar Yield Engine
- Geothermal & Biomass Sync
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Gold standard desktop simulation software developed by NREL and US DOE
- +Calculates detailed LCOE, NPV, and cash flows for utility-scale solar projects
- +Sophisticated physical modeling engine for PV modules, inverters, and tracking
Cons
- −Requires desktop software installation and complex parameter input
🖋️ Editorial Review
4.0/5 Editorial ReviewDisclaimer
"Gold standard national laboratory software for renewable system financial modeling."
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about System Advisor Model (SAM)
What is System Advisor Model (SAM)?
System Advisor Model (SAM) is SAM is NREL's desktop renewable energy performance and financial modeler. It is best suited for comprehensive technical modeling and financial analysis of renewable energy systems.
Who is System Advisor Model (SAM) best suited for?
System Advisor Model (SAM) is designed specifically for: Comprehensive technical modeling and financial analysis of renewable energy systems..
What pricing plans does System Advisor Model (SAM) offer?
System Advisor Model (SAM) is offered as a non-profit product. As a non-profit initiative, contributions directly support ecosystem restoration, tree planting projects, or conservation grants.
What are the main features of System Advisor Model (SAM)?
The core features that make System Advisor Model (SAM) stand out include:
- NREL Desktop Simulator
- Financial Renewable Metrics
- Utility Solar Yield Engine
- Geothermal & Biomass Sync
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Quick Specs
Last verified: Jul 1, 2026Pricing verifiedData source: Official vendor website
Sector☀️ Solar Energy
Subcategories
Pricing Model
non-profit
Best Suited ForComprehensive technical modeling and financial analysis of renewable energy systems.
Regions of Impact
Global
Tags
NREL SAMFinancial ModelingRenewable EconomicsBattery DispatchOpen Source
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