Last week, VHB thought leaders gathered at the 2025 Esri User Conference, a global event for Geographic Information Systems (GIS), where VHB was honored with the Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award for development of our NET+ solar site analysis and assessment tool. This award recognizes organizations setting new precedents throughout the GIS community.
The innovative NET+ tool allows users to analyze, visualize, and estimate how much renewable energy can be produced from solar systems installed on the ground, canopies, rooftops, right-of-ways, and other areas across large regions. NET+ leverages spatial data and intelligence, solar irradiance information from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), past performance data, GeoAI, and prediction to estimate potential energy outputs of projects. Built using tools like ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Online, Model Builder, and customized Esri Deep Learning models, NET+ reflects VHB’s technology-driven approach to smart, simulation-based design.
"NET+ is a game-changer for public and private organizations seeking to achieve decarbonization and resiliency goals while unlocking new economic opportunities,” said Joel Serface, VHB Director of Energy Innovation. “The possibilities are exciting, such as DOTs generating new revenue streams, real estate developers crafting Clean Energy Master Plans, hospitals enhancing resilience and reducing operational costs, and universities transitioning their energy infrastructure to net zero.”
During the conference, VHB also collaborated with the Georgia Transmission Corporation (GTC) to co-host a panel on enhancing Georgia’s power grid while also conserving vital historic resources using technology. The session was delivered by VHB’s Patrick Bowen, History Practice Lead, and Alexandra Smith, Senior GIS Analyst, alongside GTC’s Chris Smith, Environmental Services Manager.
“We were thrilled to share our experiences at Esri with GTC”, said Patrick. “Presenting at the Esri User Conference opens many doors to connect with our peers, allowing us all to collaborate on solutions to rising issues we’re similarly facing in our communities.”
Learn more about our Technology Solutions, or connect with Steve Anderson, GISP, with any questions.
