Google set to sell map data to companies creating solar products

Google is set to license a series of new mapping datasets to a diverse range of companies, ushering in a wave of innovation in the renewable energy sector. With aspirations to generate up to $100 million in its debut year, this initiative signifies Google’s commitment to reshaping the landscape of renewable energy products. CNBC’s exclusive insights provide a sneak peek into Google’s ambitious plans and the transformative impact they might have.

The driving force behind this initiative is Google’s intention to provide access to fresh Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that offer crucial solar and energy-related information, along with air quality data. These APIs hold the potential to catalyze growth in various sectors, from solar installation to real estate, hospitality, and beyond.

A notable API set to make waves is the Solar API, primed for adoption by industry giants like SunRun and Tesla Energy, as well as innovative solar design companies like Aurora Solar. However, Google’s vision extends beyond these horizons, envisaging collaboration with real estate behemoths like Zillow and Redfin, along with renowned hospitality brand Marriott Bonvoy and utilities like PG&E.

Central to the Solar API’s offerings is data derived from Project Sunroof, a consumer-oriented pilot that introduced a solar savings calculator in 2015. This unique program empowers users to input their address and receive insightful estimates, including potential electric bill savings and the optimal size of a solar installation. Moreover, it employs 3D modeling based on Google Maps data, facilitating an in-depth understanding of building roofs and nearby tree coverage.

Google’s plan encompasses providing API access to both individual building data and aggregated insights for entire cities or counties. With data available for 350 million buildings, a remarkable increase from the 60 million cited during Project Sunroof’s inception, Google’s reach promises to be substantial.

Anticipation looms large, as an internal document forecasts potential revenues ranging between $90 and $100 million in the Solar API’s inaugural year. Additionally, there’s an exciting prospect of integration with Google Cloud products in the foreseeable future.

Yet, Google’s innovation doesn’t stop at renewable energy. The impending launch also includes an Air Quality API that empowers customers to request comprehensive air quality data, complete with pollutant details and location-based health recommendations. This offering will feature digital heat maps, hourly air quality updates, and a 30-day air quality history, providing invaluable insights into environmental dynamics.

As the energy industry stands on the precipice of transformation, Google’s foray into renewable energy mapping data heralds a new era of possibilities. While Google has yet to comment on these developments, the potential for change is palpable, and the industry awaits with bated breath to witness the unfolding of this monumental venture.