This paper describes a methodology developed for determining the solar energy potential of large scale urban areas based on building typology. As a result of the method, the solar yield at the roof can be determined, taking into account shading obstructions and assembly, distances. In the model the utilized as well as the collected energy is calculated, taking into account the energy losses by unused energy, energy delivery and energy storage. A main pillar of the method is the building typology that classifies buildings according to roof characteristics and other geometric factors influencing the domestic hot water demand. For each building type the following outputs are calculated: the solar yield, the maximum potential energy that can be produced by roof-integrated photovoltaic panels, the maximum potential energy that can be covered by solar thermal collectors and the realistic energy produced by solar thermal collectors taking into account economical considerations. Based on the model, urban-level solar potential estimations can be carried out with the use of digital cartography at low costs. Such an estimation is presented in a case study for Debrecen, Hungary, but the model can be adapted to any settlement with different building types or climatic conditions. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.