Hi everyone,

I’d like to ask if it’s possible to import 3D images or models from Google Maps into PV*SOL to use them as a base for modelling the surroundings (buildings, shading objects, terrain, etc.).

If anyone knows whether this feature is supported, or what steps or intermediate tools can be used to bring a Google Maps 3D model into PV*SOL, I’d really appreciate some guidance.

Thanks in advance!

Dear Aluija,

Thank you for your inquiry.

With PV*SOL, you can extrude a 3D model of a building based on a map section from Google Maps. Using the Google Solar API, an orthophoto and elevation data for the map section are imported into PV*SOL. How this works is described in our help documentation.

There is also a video tutorial (with English subtitles) that explains this planning method.

To be able to use the Google Solar API data in PV*SOL premium, a valid API key is required, which can be created quickly and easily at Google. A Google account with stored payment information is required.

If you don't yet have an API key, you can still extrude a 3D model of a building based on a map section without the orthophoto and elevation data. We demonstrate this planning method in this video tutorial.