To design a solar plant, two distinct sets of data must be collected; the client's energy requirements as well as the potential solar energy (insolation) for that area.

Typically, analyzing utility bills will determine the current needs, in cases where this information is readily available. New construction presents an entirely different challenge but with residential builds this demand can be estimated using census data specific to the location. Commercial construction energy needs are always calculated during the design phase. Please refer to the Data Collection Resources and Technology Resources sections (to the right) for assistance in collecting the location-specific data.