Current Status & What's Next
Version 3 is stable and supported today. Our next-generation methodology, Prism, is in active development.
Where things stand today
The current ForgeSolar analysis engine (version 3) is stable, supported, and in active service. Following this year's methodology and module-profile updates and bug fixes, we have deliberately frozen the version 3 methodology. We are not planning further changes to the version 3 analysis methodology.
The engine version used for every analysis is recorded in your results and reports, and we recommend downloading them at the time of each analysis so you keep a permanent, version-stamped record.
Our development effort is now focused on the next generation of the ForgeSolar methodology.
What's coming: Prism (version 4)
Prism is a ground-up overhaul of the ForgeSolar glare-analysis methodology, built for higher quantitative rigor. Instead of working from a flattened approximation of your site, it simulates the real geometry and surroundings of each project:
- True 3D array geometry — models the actual shape, tilt, and layout of each PV array in three dimensions.
- Local terrain & topography — accounts for ground elevation and the surrounding landscape at your site.
- Higher-fidelity reflection modeling — a physically detailed simulation of how sunlight reflects from the array toward each receptor.
- Improved obstruction handling — more precise line-of-sight blocking from buildings, trees, screening, and other obstructions.
- Refined route & flight-path analysis — better representation of glare seen by receptors moving along travel paths.
Our planned rollout
Private beta
A small group of users validates Prism against real projects.
Open beta (opt-in)
Prism becomes available to all users to run alongside version 3, so you can compare results and migrate on your own schedule.
General availability
Prism becomes the default for new projects. Version 3 remains available for a limited transition period.
Prism has been in active development for over a year. We'll share validation details and result-comparison guidance as it moves through beta.
What this means for you
Your current work is safe
Version 3 remains stable and frozen. The engine version that produced each analysis is stamped on your downloaded results, and we recommend downloading your results and report at the time of each analysis so you keep a permanent record.
You move when you're ready
When Prism opens to everyone, you'll be able to run it side by side with version 3 rather than being switched over automatically.
Version 3 stays available during the transition
Version 3 will remain available for a limited period after Prism becomes generally available, so you can complete or reproduce in-progress analyses during the transition. We'll announce its retirement in advance.
For how we version the analysis engine, see the Engine Changelog and the versioning FAQ.