Choose Aurora Solar if you are a larger operation that needs industry-leading design and simulation depth and can justify premium, US-dollar, per-seat pricing. Choose Solar Proof if you want Australian compliance built in, STCs, the Federal Battery Rebate and AS/NZS 5033 SLDs, at a fraction of the cost. Aurora is more powerful for complex modelling; Solar Proof is better tuned and far cheaper for everyday Australian quoting.
At a glance
| Solar Proof | Aurora Solar | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | AU compliance & quoting | US-style design depth |
| Pricing | From ~$4/project; Pro ~$99/mo (AUD) | From ~US$159/user/mo |
| Australian focus | Built for Australia | US-first |
| AU rebates (STC/battery) | Built in | Not native |
| Simulation depth | Solid | Industry-leading |
| SLD editor | Yes (AS/NZS 5033) | Limited for AU |
| Free trial | Yes | No full trial (credits/demo) |
Where Aurora Solar wins
- Design and simulation depth. Among the most advanced modelling and shade analysis available, ideal for complex projects.
- AI site modelling. Automatic 3D roof generation in seconds, plus LIDAR-assisted design.
- Bankable reports. Validated shade and production data where financiers require it.
Where Solar Proof wins
- Australian compliance. STCs, the Federal Battery Rebate and AS/NZS 5033 SLDs built in, where Aurora is US-oriented.
- Cost. Per-project pricing in AUD versus Aurora's premium per-seat USD subscription.
- Local financials. Savings modelling built around Australian tariffs and schemes, not US net metering.
Pricing compared
Aurora uses per-user subscription pricing in US dollars, from around US$159 per user per month for Basic up to custom Enterprise pricing, with a credit option and no full free trial. Solar Proof is pay-as-you-go from around four dollars per project in Australian dollars, with Pro plans from about ninety-nine dollars per month. For most Australian installers, the cost difference is substantial.
What installers say
"Solar Proof is hands down the best solar design software we've used. The combination of ease of use and powerful custom templates have made it indispensable."
When you should NOT switch to Solar Proof
If you run a large operation doing genuinely complex design work that depends on Aurora's deep simulation, LIDAR modelling or bankable reports, and you have the budget for it, Aurora's depth may be worth the premium. Solar Proof does not aim to match that level of simulation, and we will say so plainly.
FAQ
Is Solar Proof a good Aurora Solar alternative in Australia?
For most Australian installers, yes. It provides Australian compliance, SLDs and battery-rebate handling at a fraction of Aurora's cost. It does not match Aurora's deep simulation, which matters mainly for large or complex projects.
Why is Aurora Solar more expensive?
Aurora uses premium per-seat USD subscription pricing aimed at the US market and larger operations, whereas Australian tools like Solar Proof use low per-project pricing.
Verdict
Aurora Solar is more powerful for complex, simulation-heavy design and suits well-resourced operations. Solar Proof is the better everyday choice for Australian installers who want local compliance and far lower cost. Pick Aurora for depth; pick Solar Proof for Australian fit and value.
