This paper describes the development of the underlying methodology of a solar energy planning (SEP) system for energy advisers and policy makers. The methodology predicts the baseline energy consumption of domestic properties and determines the potential for reducing this using the three key solar technologies of passive solar design, solar water heating and photovoltaic (PV) systems. A new dwelling classification system has been developed to address the major problem of data collection for city-wide domestic energy modelling. The system permits baseline energy demands to be estimated using assumed values or more accurately calculated using dwelling survey data. The methodology integrates existing models with new approaches to both identify suitable dwellings for installing solar water heating and PV systems and to quantify the potential energy savings and reductions in carbon dioxide emissions. Guidance on improving estate layouts to enhance passive solar conditions is also given. Results can be presented using a geographical information system (GIS). The paper concludes with a discussion of possible planning scenarios to illustrate how the methodology may enable planners to consider the urban-scale application of solar energy with greatly increased confidence. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.