High-resolution aerial imagery is the foundation of an accurate solar design. This guide covers why Nearmap imagery improves panel layout and measurement, how it compares to free imagery, and how it works inside Solar Proof.
Better imagery, better designs
Your design is only as accurate as the picture of the roof you're working from. High-resolution, recent imagery lets you measure roof planes, spot vents and obstructions, and place panels precisely, which means fewer surprises on install day and proposals customers can trust.
- Accurate measurement of roof faces and available area.
- Obstruction spotting, vents, skylights, aircon units and shading sources.
- Recent captures, so you're not designing on imagery that's years out of date.
Nearmap vs free imagery
Free imagery from state portals or search engines is fine for a quick first look, but it's often lower resolution or out of date. For solar design, paid providers like Nearmap are captured far more often and at higher resolution, which translates directly into measurement accuracy. (We compare providers in detail in our imagery providers comparison.)
How it works in Solar Proof
Solar Proof supports high-resolution imagery from providers including Nearmap and Metromap, with historical imagery on annual accounts. You design directly on the clearest available view of the roof and carry that layout straight through to production estimates, the proposal and the SLD.
Keep exploring
Frequently asked questions
Why use Nearmap for solar design?
It provides frequently updated, high-resolution imagery that makes measuring roofs, counting obstructions and placing panels more accurate, fewer surprises at install and better proposals.
Is Nearmap better than free imagery?
For solar design, usually yes, free imagery can be low-res or years out of date. Nearmap is captured more often and at higher resolution, though free imagery is fine for a quick look.
Does Solar Proof include Nearmap imagery?
Solar Proof supports high-resolution imagery from providers including Nearmap and Metromap, with historical imagery on annual accounts.
