How to Market Your Solar Business
Once you decide on how to start a solar business, how you get the word out about it is the next step. There are many traditional means of advertising, but these can be costly. When starting a business, many people find themselves with more time than cash. While some of these ideas do take some green, others can spread the word about your green business without costing you too much at the outset.
1. Offer something for free. There is something about free gifts, discounts and specials that makes almost any deal look even better. These tactics may reduce your profits slightly, but they require very little cash to be spent on your part.
So what can you offer for free? Installation is a great place to start. Offering free installation as part of a larger purchase package is a good way to get your foot in the door with a particular customer. If you do a good job, it can also be a way to get free word of mouth marketing.
2. Teach a free class or become a part-time teacher at a local institution. The latter of these is less likely, but if you have the credentials and connections, you might even find yourself getting paid to promote yourself.
Even without the right background or network to find a paid teaching job, you can offer to educate the public for free through workshops or seminars. Be sure to offer a balanced view of other available companies providing solar. How you build trust as a public speaker is to put your listeners’ needs ahead of your own marketing efforts. Your workshops should concentrate on solar in general, not on your particular business.
3. Educate people on the benefits of solar power. There are so many reasons to buy solar, so one of the key strategies here is to understand what a particular potential customer wants out of a solar power solution. Do they care a great deal about the environment? If so, explain the benefits in real, numeric terms. Provide analogies and examples that support and augment your claims. Help them to see the ways in which they will help the planet.
Are they looking to save money by using solar power? If so, again use real data on cost savings to explain both long and short term how they will benefit financially from using solar power. Explore with them the potential tax credits or benefits they can get by choosing solar. Make sure to explain that the longer they have solar power, the more they will save as well. This is particularly true now that energy costs are continuing to rise with no end in sight.
4. Post comments and articles on forums and blogs. Many early adopters and tech-savvy individuals can be found on the Internet in forums and on blogs. Tapping into this critical market can help you build a broader network within the industry and with potential clients. Be sure to provide well-rounded and informative opinions when posting to a forum or leaving a comment on a blog, but don’t be afraid to state clearly that you have something to sell.
If you choose to start a blog yourself, target it broadly. Cast a wide net and don’t simply try to sell your product. You have to build a reader’s trust in your abilities and expertise before you can expect them to want to do business with you. Provide solar how to articles and other valuable information.
This list is naturally not exhaustive. When it comes to marketing solar, how you reach customers is up to you. You can post fliers, pay for advertisements, network offline within the business community and so on. When you’re starting out, it’s helpful to use cost-effective marketing methods. Work on building up a customer base and attracting recurrent sales. You’ll get more business this way with no further marketing investment.
Solar Panels – Pvs At Work
What is PV solar power? You have heard the term, but you are unsure as to its meaning. You are vaguely aware that solar power has something to do with making energy from sunlight. But what is PV solar power? Is it different from other kinds of solar power?
PV solar power is different from other types. Of the two main categories of solar power, active and passive, PV solar power is active. Let’s look at it.
Solar Panel
Active solar power relies on solar panels. You may picture them as flat, rectangular boxes on rooftops.
There are two main types of solar panel. From a distance, both look like rectangular boxes. Both convert sunlight into energy, but in two different ways. The terms for the two solar panel types are solar thermal collector and photovoltaic module.
1. Solar thermal collector: This solar panel takes in solar energy from the sun and uses it to heat air or water.
2. Photovoltaic module: This second type of solar panel collects solar energy and converts it to usable electricity.
Meet the PV
To answer the question, what is PV solar power, we must know what the PV is. The short answer is that PV refers to a photovoltaic module. “P” is for photo and “V” for voltaic.
The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines “photovoltaic” this way.
“of, relating to, or utilizing the generation of a voltage when radiant energy falls on the boundary between dissimilar substances.”
In simpler terms, “photo” refers to sunlight and “voltaic” refers to electrical energy. PV panels convert sunlight into electrical energy. Sunlight flows into the solar panel. Electrical energy flows out of the solar panel.
A PV solar panel is made up of many photovoltaic (light to volts) cells. These cells are electrically connected, and then covered with glass. The glass provides electrical insulation. It is also good protection from weather and other damaging forces.
When minimal energy is needed, such as that necessary to power a small appliance, a single PV solar panel is sufficient. When more power is needed, an “array” of solar panels is created by connecting panels to one another. If the power will not be supplied to the power grid, the solar panel(s) is connected to a charge controller, and battery. If it is intended for on-grid use, the solar panel array will be connected to an electrical inverter.
What Is PV Solar Power?
PV solar power is solar energy in the form of sunlight, which has been collected by a photovoltaic module, and converted into usable electricity.
Conventional silicon solar panels convert about 14 to 17 percent of sunlight into usable electricity. That isn’t much. Late in 2006, however, a new solar cell
was introduced. Solar panels that utilize the new cell can convert into electricity 22 percent of the sunlight they collect. Theoretically, the maximum that the cells of a solar panel can convert is said to be around 26 to 27 percent of incoming sunlight.
How does it work? Let’s look at a very simple explanation.
Each photovoltaic cell in a PV solar panel is a semiconductor. When sunlight hits those cells, a certain part of the sunlight is absorbed by those silicon cells. The cells take in that part of the sunlight’s energy. The cells then transfer the absorbed sunlight’s energy to the electrons in the silicon. The electrons begin to flow, and this creates an electrical current. Metal contacts built into the top and bottom of the PV cells draw off that current and it is sent to the grid or battery. It is now usable electricity. The power grid sends it on its way, if you have used an on-grid connection. If you are using a battery, it is stored in the battery awaiting your need.
PV solar power is being used increasingly with great success, and while it is true that cloud cover can affect it, the cloudy country of Germany leads the world in successful use of solar panels.
Solar Panels And The IRS
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming an asset to any Solar Project.
“Solar Panels And The IRS”
Solar panels seem to be an excellent way to generate less costly electrical power. They seem a good way to heat water, as well as the air inside homes.
Solar panels and the IRS should be friends, since the government purports to be seeking alternative energy sources. The U.S. government should give tax credit to those who invest in solar panels. But does it?
The value of solar panels in the IRS’ eyes is shown in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 for Individuals. In 2006, inflation adjustment figures were given, but the act remains basically the same.
Energy Policy Act of 2005 for Individuals (EPACT) – Summary
Individuals can make energy-conscious purchases, and receive tax benefits for doing so. The law provides tax credits for making your principal residence, which must be in the U.S., more energy efficient. It also gives tax credits for buying specified energy-efficient items, including alternative motor vehicles such as hybrids.
Solar panels, says IRS, will earn tax credits if they are on your main home, and that home
is in the U.S.
Detail Regarding Solar Panel Tax Credits
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 makes a tax credit available to those who add qualified solar panels to their homes in the U.S. The IRS allows one credit equal to 30 percent of the qualified investment in a solar panel up to a maximum $2,000 credit. The IRS also allows an equal credit for investing in a solar water heating system. You could credit of up to $4,000, $2,000 for solar panels, and $2,000 for solar water heating.
Whether you add solar panels or a solar water heating system, you cannot use any part of it to heat a hot tub or swimming pool.
State Rebates or Tax Incentives and the IRS
You may find that your solar panels are eligible for state rebates or tax incentives. Your state’s energy office website may have more information on that. If your state or utility does give incentives for installing solar panels, the IRS tax credit applies to the basis remaining after you have taken state incentives.
Example: Your $10,000 solar panel array receives $5,000 in state tax incentives. It would then be eligible for a credit equal to 30 percent of $5,000. Your Federal IRS tax credit would be $1,500.
To locate any tax incentives your state may offer, simply search on the state name with the words solar incentive, without quotation marks. Another good place to look is http://www.dsireusa.org/
Another idea is that some Energy Companies will buy back your unused power. The formentioned website is packed with useful information about Rebates, incentives,savings and more!
Wouldn’t a Tax Deduction Be Better than a Tax Credit?
Normally speaking, a tax deduction is less valuable to you than the same amount of tax credit. A tax deduction takes away a percentage of the tax you owe the IRS. But a tax credit reduces your tax, dollar-for-dollar.
Solar Panels absent IRS Credits
Even if EPACT had not been signed into law, and the IRS offered no tax credits, solar panel installation could still be a wise investment
. Many find that a solar panel array pays for itself within 3 to 4 years. They then save money on electricity for many years with little maintenance.
So, while tax credits are welcome, you may still want to do more research into the potential savings of solar panels.
Disclaimer: Please note that the author is not a tax professional and cannot offer you tax advice. The information above is for educational purposes only. It is always best to reseach for yourself to find what laws apply to your state, or country.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Solar Power for Camping
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels is becoming a campers delight.
Solar power systems for camping are increasing in availability, but what about practicality? Can solar power systems for camping be put to use readily? Are they portable enough? Are they durable enough?
Solar power practicality for camping must address those questions and more. Are solar power systems for camping cost effective? Do they produce enough energy for normal needs?
RV Camping
Solar power systems for camping can readily be used in RV camping.
Many people spend most of their RV camping time in RV camping spaces with full hook-ups. They plan trips according to where the next RV camp is, and reserve a full hook-up space for the end of each day. For them, solar power
practicality is questionable. It makes a great back-up system, if there is a power outage
at a campground,generator failure or the Camp Ground is full and you can’t get in.
Others enjoy the freedom of being able to camp without hook-ups. They want to get off the beaten track – be pioneers. They want the opportunity to be in a remote, quiet place for a few days. They may want to go off road, or stop beside a quiet stream, even though it is in the middle of nowhere. They don’t want to rush to make it to the next full hook-up campground. Also with Solar Systems you will enjoy the peace and tranquility of that remote location without the constant hum of your generator. Some will say that my generator is “Super Quiet” but try moving to a location where the nearest human is 100 miles away and you will realise that the Super Quiet generator you were sold may be actually quite noisy!
Solar power practicality for camping is real for the second group of campers. Solar power serves a practical use for them. It breaks the leash of energy needs and lets them wander as they please.
Operating an RV’s electrical system with a solar power system is simple. Charging its batteries with solar power is also simple. You need to plan your system, of course. You need to know how much energy you want. Then you need to purchase and install solar panels, batteries, and inverters that will produce that amount of energy for you.
Many Internet websites will guide you through the necessary steps of determining how much solar power you need. They will explain which components will provide that amount of energy. Solar power systems for camping in recreational vehicles are increasingly available in a range of sizes, and you are sure to find one to fit your needs. Most are easy to use.
Solar power systems for camping may make you think twice about appliances you take for granted in RV camping. For example, suppose you have a coffee maker that requires 15 minutes to brew coffee, and then keeps the coffee warm on a warming plate. This will consume a lot of your solar power. You may want to replace that coffee maker with one that will brew in 10 minutes and shut itself off. Pour your coffee into a thermos and it will remain hot without using more energy.
Non-RV Camping
Solar power systems for camping are also practical for non-RV camping. The same two groups of people are to be found. One group likes to make camp in a KOA campground, with electrical power close at hand. The other group likes to hike into the back country with lightweight backpacks, and camp wherever darkness overtakes them.
Solar power practicality can easily be seen in the array of lightweight, portable units hitting the market. Solar power can be generated by the backpack in which gear is carried. Flexible solar panels can be rolled up and carried to the campsite, where they can be stretched on the ground to generate additional energy.
Solar power systems for camping are small and portable, but can generate enough energy to run a small heater or light bulb. Solar collected by a backpack while hiking can recharge a cell phone, camera, or iPod. Small solar power units will run appliances made for use in a vehicle. The coffee maker that will plug into your cigarette lighter can be run by a flexible solar power panel.
Solar power practicality for camping is sure to increase, and products for this use will multiply. Those who appreciate the environment enough to want to be far out into it will demand clean energy
, i.e. solar power.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Starting your own Solar Business
Do you want to start a business dealing in alternative power? The smart entrepreneurs are flocking to solar. How does one get involved in this growing industry? To get into or start a solar business, first you have to understand how the solar industry works.
There are solar businesses that rely on large commercial clients and big purchases to pay the bills. Others rent solar equipment to smaller businesses or homeowners directly. Fortunately, when it comes to solar, how to produce and store the energy is already established. That allows you to focus more on selling the technology than on fixing or developing technological solutions.
You don’t have to be a veteran technician, expert salesperson or crafty entrepreneur to run a successful solar business. You just need to plan ahead, proceed carefully and take advantage of a growth industry.
When starting out your own solar business, you might want to become a kind of Jack-of-all-trades. In the beginning, you may not be able to afford a staff. You may need to take care of marketing, sales and business management yourself. As you get more involved in solar, how you do business will change. You’ll be able to slowly hire staff to help you with business tasks.
There are two primary advantages to this approach:
1. You will be familiar with all aspects of your own business from top to bottom. This will make you a better manager when you do have people to manage.
2. This will save on startup costs and allow you to use your time instead of money to build and grow the business.
You could also get loans or other external funding and hire a team from the start. However, this approach carries a greater risk. It should only be done if you are experienced in business and know how to make your business successful.
You don’t need to know every detail of how solar power and technology work to run a solar business. However, it’s important to be familiar and comfortable with what you are selling to others. Here are some ways in which you can become more familiar with solar technology and the solar industry in general:
1. Some colleges have already begun offering courses and degrees in solar installation and solar business management. Taking these on the side while you build your business (or before you launch it) might be a good idea.
2. You might also wish to consider the merits of an apprenticeship. Working for someone else with a solar business can help you see how the business works from the inside. You can also see what doesn’t work. This information will help you when you strike out on your own.
3. Depending on where you live and work, you might need a special license to run your own solar business. Be sure to check with local sources to see if such a license is required in your area.
As someone starting a solar business, you might find there are more resources than you realized to help you on your way. There are free tools available to help you start a solar business. There are many solar how-to books, websites and brochures out there. There are also organizations that can provide loans and other financial assistance to developing businesses related to alternative energy.
So once you have the necessary education or training, tools, resources and funding what is next? Once you know about solar, how to make a business out of it should be your next focus. Will you cater to small clients or large, private or commercial? Will you rent, lease or sell equipment? Will you also install the equipment or contract out that work? These may change with time, but it is important to understand how solar businesses operate. Keep your knowledge fresh so that when opportunities for new directions come your way you can seize them quickly.
