Introduction: The Challenge and Opportunity of Marketing Community Solar
Community solar projects offer an exciting proposition: enabling households, businesses, and organizations to access the benefits of solar energy without installing panels on their own property. Yet, despite their clear environmental and economic advantages, community solar initiatives often face an uphill battle when it comes to subscriber acquisition and retention. Misconceptions about participation, complex billing, and lack of awareness can stymie even the most well-planned projects.
Effective marketing is the linchpin that bridges the gap between a well-designed solar array and a thriving, engaged community of users. Unlike residential solar, which targets individual homeowners, community solar marketing must reach diverse audiences—renters, business owners, nonprofits, and municipalities—each with unique motivations and concerns. Moreover, the marketing approach must build trust, clarify benefits, and inspire action in a sector where skepticism and inertia often prevail.
This guide explores proven, practical marketing strategies tailored specifically for community solar projects. Whether you’re a developer, cooperative, or municipal agency, you’ll discover actionable techniques to drive sign-ups, foster ongoing engagement, and ensure your project delivers both environmental and social impact. Let’s illuminate the path to a brighter, more sustainable community energy future.
Understanding Your Audience: Segmentation and Messaging
Identify Key Audience Segments
Community solar projects serve a wide spectrum of participants. Tailoring your marketing starts with identifying and understanding these core segments:
- Renters: Typically unable to install rooftop solar, often motivated by cost savings and environmental impact.
- Homeowners with unsuitable roofs: Eager for solar benefits but limited by shade, orientation, or HOA restrictions.
- Small businesses: Interested in sustainability branding and utility savings.
- Nonprofits and schools: Seek budget predictability and community leadership opportunities.
- Municipalities: Driven by climate goals and constituent engagement.
Craft Audience-Specific Messaging
Generic messaging dilutes your impact. Instead, develop tailored value propositions for each segment:
- For renters/homeowners: “No rooftop required—save money and support clean energy with a simple subscription.”
- For businesses: “Boost your green credentials and control energy costs with hassle-free solar participation.”
- For nonprofits/schools: “Lower your utility bills and lead the way in sustainable education.”
Address Common Barriers and Misconceptions
Anticipate and answer frequent concerns in your marketing materials:
- “Will my utility bill really go down?”
- “Can I leave if I move?”
- “Is there a long-term contract or penalty?”
- “How is this different from green power programs?”
Use clear, jargon-free explanations and provide side-by-side comparisons where appropriate.
Building Trust: Transparency and Community Engagement
Showcase Local Impact and Ownership
People want to know how their participation benefits their community. Highlight:
- Number of local subscribers and projected environmental impact (e.g., CO2 avoided)
- Economic benefits, such as job creation or local investment
- Opportunities for community ownership or governance
Leverage Partnerships with Trusted Local Organizations
Collaborate with:
- Neighborhood associations
- Environmental groups
- Faith-based organizations
- Chambers of commerce
- Local government offices
These partners can extend your credibility and reach, helping to host events, distribute materials, and endorse your project.
Provide Transparent Pricing and Contract Terms
Make it easy for potential subscribers to understand:
- How bill credits and payments work
- Any up-front or recurring costs
- Contract terms, cancellation policies, and transferability
Offer sample bills and interactive calculators to demystify the process.
Digital Marketing Tactics That Work
Develop a User-Friendly, Informative Website
Your website is often the first touchpoint. Essential features include:
- Clear explanation of community solar and your specific project
- Eligibility checker (by address or utility)
- Simple sign-up flow, with minimal required steps
- FAQs, testimonials, and case studies
- Accessible contact options (chat, phone, email)
Use Hyperlocal SEO and Google My Business
Optimize your website for search terms like “community solar near me” and create a Google My Business profile. Include accurate location info, images, and regular updates about your project’s progress.
Leverage Social Media for Education and Advocacy
Focus on platforms popular in your area—often Facebook and Instagram for local outreach, LinkedIn for business audiences. Share:
- Behind-the-scenes photos and project milestones
- Subscriber stories and testimonials
- Fact-based infographics about solar energy benefits
- Live Q&A sessions or webinars
Utilize Paid Ads Strategically
Geo-targeted Facebook and Google ads can drive awareness and sign-ups. Test different messages for each audience segment. Use retargeting to reach website visitors who didn’t complete sign-up.
Offline and Grassroots Outreach Strategies
Host Community Information Sessions
In-person or virtual events allow for direct interaction and trust-building. Partner with local venues—libraries, schools, or community centers. Provide refreshments, printed materials, and on-the-spot sign-up assistance.
Leverage Local Media
Pitch your story to local newspapers, radio, and TV. Focus on:
- Unique aspects of your project (e.g., first of its kind, local ownership)
- Personal stories of early subscribers
- Environmental and economic benefits to the community
Participate in Community Events and Festivals
Set up booths at farmers markets, fairs, and sustainability expos. Use visual displays (e.g., miniature solar models), offer giveaways, and collect contact info for follow-up.
Direct Mail and Door-to-Door Outreach
Well-designed postcards and flyers can cut through digital noise, especially for older or less online-savvy audiences. Train outreach staff to answer questions succinctly and respectfully.
Subscriber Journey: From Awareness to Advocacy
Streamline the Onboarding Process
Reduce friction at every step:
- Online forms should be mobile-friendly and require only essential info
- Provide confirmation and a clear timeline for activation
- Offer live support (phone/chat) during sign-up campaigns
Maintain Regular, Value-Added Communication
Once subscribed, keep your community engaged with:
- Quarterly updates on project performance and local impact
- Explanations of how bill credits are calculated
- Invitations to tours, celebrations, or volunteer opportunities
Encourage Advocacy and Referrals
Your subscribers are your best ambassadors. Incentivize referrals with:
- Bill credits for successful sign-ups
- Recognition in newsletters or events
- Opportunities to contribute testimonials or stories
Data-Driven Optimization and Measuring Success
Track Key Marketing Metrics
Monitor and adjust using:
- Website analytics (traffic, sign-up conversion rates)
- Ad performance (click-throughs, cost per acquisition)
- Event attendance and lead capture rates
- Email open and engagement rates
Survey Subscribers and Non-Subscribers
Conduct periodic surveys to understand:
- Why people sign up—or don’t
- Confusing aspects of your messaging or process
- Suggestions for improvement
Refine Your Approach Continuously
Use data to double down on what works—whether it’s a specific ad channel, local partnership, or type of event. Discontinue resources from channels that don’t convert.
Special Considerations: Serving Low-Income and Underserved Populations
Design Accessible Messaging and Materials
Simplify language, provide translations, and use visuals to explain key concepts. Avoid jargon like “net metering” or “renewable energy credits” without clear explanations.
Offer Flexible Enrollment and Payment Options
Work with local agencies to:
- Simplify sign-up for residents without internet or bank accounts
- Accept alternative forms of identification
- Provide assistance with understanding utility bills
Partner with Social Service Organizations
Collaborate with housing authorities, food banks, and community clinics to reach those who would benefit most from energy savings but may lack awareness or trust in new programs.
Case Study: Growing a Successful Community Solar Project
Example: BrightFields Community Solar, Upstate New York
BrightFields launched with a 2 MW array, aiming to enroll 350 households and 20 small businesses. Their marketing mix included:
- Hyperlocal digital ads targeting ZIP codes within utility boundaries
- Monthly workshops at the local library and online webinars
- Partnership with the local food co-op for co-branded outreach
- Simple, two-page subscription agreement
- Quarterly impact reports for all subscribers
Within 12 months, BrightFields achieved 98% subscription, with over 30% of new sign-ups coming from subscriber referrals. Surveys showed that clarity of pricing and the visible local partnership were the most influential factors in customer decision-making.
Conclusion: Lighting the Way for Community Solar’s Future
Community solar represents a transformative model for democratizing access to clean energy. Yet, its success hinges not just on technical viability or regulatory support, but on effective, inclusive marketing that resonates with diverse audiences. By segmenting your audience, crafting clear and relevant messaging, building trust through transparency and local partnerships, and embracing both digital and grassroots outreach, you can dramatically accelerate engagement and participation in your project.
Remember: the journey doesn’t end at sign-up. Ongoing communication, community-building events, and robust referral programs turn subscribers into advocates, multiplying your impact across the neighborhood and beyond. Data-driven approaches ensure your strategies remain agile and effective as your project grows and evolves.
In the rapidly changing world of sustainable energy, community solar holds the promise of real, tangible benefits for people and planet. Thoughtful marketing is the engine that brings this promise to life—empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and accelerating the transition to a greener energy future. By applying these strategies, you position your project not just for enrollment success, but for long-term, shared prosperity.
I noticed you mentioned that misconceptions about participation and complex billing can make it hard for people to sign up for community solar projects. Do you have any examples of how other communities have simplified the billing process or education materials to overcome these hurdles, especially for busy families?
Absolutely, some communities have tackled these hurdles by partnering with local organizations to host short, family-friendly info sessions that break down key benefits and the sign-up process in plain language. Others have streamlined billing by consolidating charges into a single monthly bill, instead of separate utility and solar payments. Simple FAQs, quick explainer videos, and dedicated support lines have also helped busy families get clear answers quickly and feel more confident joining.
You highlight skepticism and inertia as common barriers. Do you have examples of trust-building campaigns or partnerships that have successfully overcome these challenges in diverse communities?
Absolutely, several community solar projects have used local partnerships to build trust and break down skepticism. For example, some have teamed up with well-known neighborhood organizations or faith groups to host informational sessions and Q&A events. Others have featured testimonials from early participants in local media, helping new customers see real neighbors benefiting from the program. These approaches personalize the project and help residents feel more comfortable engaging.
The article refers to misconceptions around participation and complex billing as hurdles. What strategies have you found most effective in simplifying the billing process or communicating it clearly to potential subscribers?
To address complex billing concerns, we’ve found that using clear, visual breakdowns of the billing process—such as example bills and step-by-step guides—helps potential subscribers understand what to expect. Hosting informational webinars or Q&A sessions also allows people to ask specific billing questions. Additionally, collaborating with utility partners to streamline bill formats and language reduces confusion and builds trust with new subscribers.
Could you share some practical examples of how to keep ongoing engagement high after someone subscribes to a community solar project? I’m concerned about people losing interest or forgetting about their participation over time.
To keep subscribers engaged, consider sending regular updates on energy production and environmental impact, perhaps with personalized statistics about their individual contribution. Host seasonal events—either virtual or in-person—to foster a sense of community. Newsletters featuring local stories, tips on energy savings, and opportunities for feedback can also help. Offering referral rewards or recognition for long-term participants encourages continued involvement and keeps your project top of mind.
Since community solar projects often have to build trust in skeptical audiences, are there specific outreach strategies that have worked better for nonprofit organizations or municipalities compared to standard advertising methods?
Nonprofit organizations and municipalities often find success with outreach strategies that focus on personal relationships and transparency. Community meetings, open house events, and partnerships with trusted local groups help build credibility. Educational workshops and sharing testimonials from satisfied participants also resonate well. These approaches foster trust more effectively than standard advertising, as they encourage two-way communication and demonstrate genuine community investment.
The article highlights the issue of complex billing as a barrier for subscriber retention. Could you share any practical examples or strategies on how to explain billing in simple terms to potential subscribers during the marketing process?
To make billing easier to understand, use real-life scenarios to show how savings appear on a subscriber’s regular utility bill. For example, present a side-by-side comparison of before and after joining community solar. Use clear visuals and simple language—say, ‘You keep getting your usual electric bill, but now you’ll see a credit each month, lowering what you owe.’ Avoid jargon and offer a one-page summary or a quick video walkthrough to guide new subscribers through their first bill.
You mention that building trust is crucial for community solar marketing since people can be skeptical. What are some low-cost techniques a new project with a tight budget could use to quickly establish credibility in the community?
A new community solar project can build credibility on a tight budget by partnering with respected local organizations, hosting informational sessions at familiar community spaces, and sharing testimonials from early participants. You can also provide transparent, easy-to-understand materials about the project and invite local leaders to visit or speak about the initiative. These approaches help foster trust without requiring a large marketing budget.
The article suggests ongoing engagement after sign-up is important. What are some proven ways to keep subscribers interested and involved in the long run, rather than just focusing on the initial acquisition phase?
Some effective ways to keep community solar subscribers engaged long term include regular updates on project performance and energy savings, hosting events or webinars to build community, providing educational content on renewable energy, and creating referral or loyalty programs. Encouraging feedback and showing subscribers how their participation makes a positive impact can also help maintain interest and strengthen their connection to the project.
I’m a renter interested in community solar, but I’m a bit confused about how the billing works compared to regular electricity bills. Could you explain how complex billing is typically handled and what clarity subscribers can expect before signing up?
With community solar, you’ll still receive your regular electricity bill from your utility, but you’ll also get credits on that bill based on the solar energy produced from your share in the project. Sometimes, there’s a separate statement from the solar provider showing your savings. Most reputable programs make billing details clear before you join, explaining how credits and charges appear so you know exactly what to expect each month.
If I’m trying to market a community solar project in a neighborhood where many roofs are unsuitable for solar panels, what are some first steps I should take to build awareness and trust within the community?
Begin by hosting informational sessions or open houses in the neighborhood to explain how community solar works and who can benefit, especially in cases where individual rooftops aren’t suitable. Partner with trusted local organizations or community leaders to help build credibility. Share clear, simple materials that address common questions and highlight financial and environmental benefits. Gathering testimonials from early supporters in the area can also help build trust as you engage residents.
Your article discusses reaching out to renters and homeowners with unsuitable roofs, but do you have any advice for marketing to small businesses who may be skeptical about the actual economic benefits? What messaging approaches have proven most effective for this segment?
When marketing community solar to small businesses, it’s key to highlight real numbers and case studies. Focus messaging on predictable savings, no upfront costs, and the ease of participation. Testimonials from other local businesses can build trust and show proven value. Address skepticism directly by offering simple breakdowns of how billing works and emphasizing the positive impact joining has on both the bottom line and community reputation.
I noticed trust and skepticism are big concerns. What steps can developers take to reassure people with limited free time who might be hesitant to sign up for community solar?
Developers can help build trust by offering clear, concise information about how community solar works, with straightforward explanations of costs and benefits. Providing brief, obligation-free consultations and simple online signup options saves time for busy individuals. Sharing testimonials from satisfied local customers and highlighting any consumer protections or guarantees can also help address skepticism and make the process feel safer and more accessible.
Does the guide address any specific tactics for retaining subscribers over the long term, after the initial sign-up push? I’m interested in ongoing engagement—are there proven ways to keep people involved and prevent drop-off in community solar programs?
Yes, the guide highlights tactics for keeping subscribers engaged beyond the initial sign-up. It suggests regular updates on project progress, personalized communications, and educational content to reinforce the value of participation. It also mentions creating a strong community feel through events or online forums, and providing responsive customer support—these approaches can help reduce subscriber drop-off and foster long-term commitment to the community solar program.
I noticed that the article talks about segmenting audiences like renters and homeowners with roof issues. Do you recommend creating separate campaigns for each group, or is there an effective way to reach multiple segments at once without stretching a small marketing budget?
If you’re working with a small marketing budget, you can still reach multiple segments by crafting core messages that appeal broadly, but then tailoring certain parts of your ads or outreach materials for each group. For example, use targeted language or imagery within a shared campaign to address renters’ flexibility and homeowners’ savings. Digital advertising platforms also let you customize messaging for audience segments without running entirely separate campaigns.
How do you handle marketing budgets for community solar projects compared to traditional residential solar campaigns? Are there any unique cost considerations when targeting such a diverse group of potential subscribers?
Marketing budgets for community solar projects often need more flexibility than traditional residential campaigns because the target audience is broader and more diverse. Unique cost considerations include outreach to renters, community organizations, and low-to-moderate income households, which can require tailored materials and additional educational efforts. Allocating more resources for community events, partnerships, and multilingual marketing is often necessary to effectively reach and engage these varied groups.
Building trust seems like a big deal in community solar marketing, especially when people are skeptical. What are some low-cost but impactful ways to quickly build credibility within diverse communities?
To build credibility without a big budget, consider partnering with respected local organizations or leaders who already have the community’s trust. Hosting informational sessions at community centers or local events can also help, especially if you share real customer stories or testimonials. Providing transparent, easy-to-understand information about costs and benefits goes a long way, and being available for face-to-face conversations or Q&A sessions can quickly make your project feel more trustworthy and approachable.
I’m curious how these marketing strategies might be adjusted for rural areas where awareness of community solar may be even lower, or where internet access is limited. Do you have recommendations for reaching segments in those types of communities?
In rural areas with limited internet access and lower awareness, consider using offline channels like community events, local radio, flyers at gathering spots, and partnerships with trusted local organizations. Hosting informational sessions at schools or community centers can help build trust and answer questions face to face. Word of mouth is particularly powerful in tight-knit communities, so engaging local leaders or advocates can make a big difference.
From what you describe, building trust is a key part of marketing these projects. For organizations working with limited budgets, which marketing channels or activities tend to offer the most impact when trying to boost subscriber acquisition?
For organizations with tight budgets, community outreach and partnerships often yield the best results. Hosting local info sessions, setting up at community events, and leveraging relationships with trusted local organizations or leaders can build trust and attract subscribers. Additionally, using targeted email campaigns and engaging with local social media groups are low-cost channels that can be highly effective for subscriber acquisition.
I noticed you highlighted the importance of targeting diverse groups like renters, business owners, and nonprofits. How do you recommend customizing messaging for these distinct segments within a limited marketing budget, especially for smaller developers or municipal agencies?
Customizing messaging on a limited budget can be manageable by focusing on the unique benefits each group values. For renters, highlight savings and easy enrollment. Business owners may appreciate sustainability credentials and cost reductions. Nonprofits often respond well to social impact messaging. Use simple templates and adjust key points for each segment. Leverage free or low-cost channels, like community newsletters, local events, or social media groups, to reach each audience effectively without overspending.
You talk about tailoring marketing for different groups, but what’s worked best for reaching busy families who don’t have a lot of time to research energy options? Are there specific channels or messages that get their attention effectively?
For busy families, concise and relatable messaging tends to work best. Channels like targeted social media ads, brief email newsletters, and local community events have been effective. Highlighting clear benefits—like saving money, easy sign-up, and supporting local communities—captures their attention. Simple visuals and testimonials from similar families also help build trust and make the process feel straightforward.
With diverse audiences like renters, homeowners with unsuitable roofs, and municipalities, how do you decide which marketing channels to prioritize for each group, especially if the budget is limited? Is digital outreach enough, or do you recommend more local events and partnerships?
For renters and homeowners with unsuitable roofs, targeted digital outreach works well, especially through social media and local online groups, since these audiences tend to search for energy solutions online. For municipalities, in-person meetings, partnerships, and events are often more effective because decisions usually involve multiple stakeholders. With a limited budget, a mix is ideal: prioritize digital for individuals, but reserve some resources for local events and partnerships to engage organizations and community leaders.
You mention that marketing must build trust, especially where there’s skepticism about solar. For a business with a limited marketing budget, which single outreach method—like community events, local partnerships, or digital ads—has delivered the best results for small-scale community solar projects?
For small-scale community solar projects with tight budgets, forming local partnerships often has the strongest impact. Partnering with trusted community organizations or local businesses helps build credibility and trust quickly. These collaborators can vouch for your project, introduce you to their networks, and lend authenticity in areas where skepticism is high—all at a lower cost than running digital ad campaigns or organizing standalone events.
I noticed you recommend segmenting marketing approaches based on audience type. For someone with a limited budget, which audience segment should we prioritize first to get the highest conversion rate for a new community solar project?
For a limited budget, it’s best to prioritize targeting environmentally conscious homeowners and renters within the community who are already interested in sustainability or reducing energy costs. This group is typically more receptive to community solar and will likely convert more quickly, helping you build early momentum. Consider focusing your outreach on local green groups, neighborhood associations, or social media platforms where these individuals are active.
Could you go into more detail about how to segment small businesses as a target group? Are there particular industries or business sizes that respond better to community solar marketing?
To segment small businesses for community solar marketing, look at factors like business size (often 10–50 employees) and energy consumption levels. Industries such as retail, hospitality, and small manufacturers tend to be more responsive, as they often have higher utility costs and a public interest in sustainability. Focus on businesses with storefronts or customer-facing operations, since they may value the public relations benefit of going solar. Tailor your messaging to highlight cost savings, local impact, and environmental benefits.
For marketing to small businesses specifically, do you recommend a different outreach strategy than what you’d use for residential renters, especially given their unique sustainability and branding motivations?
Yes, marketing to small businesses does call for a distinct approach compared to residential renters. Small businesses often care about cost savings, local reputation, and sustainability as a brand advantage. Tailor outreach by highlighting how participating in community solar can help them meet sustainability goals, appeal to eco-conscious customers, and potentially lower operating costs. Consider direct outreach, partnerships with local business associations, and case studies showing benefits to similar businesses. Personalize communication to address their business needs and branding opportunities.
I see that marketing to diverse audiences is important, but how should our limited marketing budget be allocated between reaching renters, homeowners, and businesses if we’re just getting our community solar program started?
With a limited budget, it makes sense to start by focusing on the segment most likely to enroll quickly—often homeowners, as they are typically more familiar with solar options. Next, allocate some funds to renters, using digital and community-based outreach, since they can benefit from community solar but may need more education. Businesses might require tailored messaging and can be approached as your program grows. Track results closely and adjust your allocations based on which group responds most effectively.
The article highlights renters as a key audience but says they’re often motivated by cost savings. Is there a typical range for how much families might actually save compared to their usual electricity bills if they join a community solar project?
Families who participate in community solar projects often see savings of about 5% to 15% on their electricity bills compared to their regular utility rates. The exact amount can vary depending on the project, local electricity prices, and individual usage. Some projects may even offer higher savings, but most fall within that range, making it an appealing option for renters.
With so many different audiences like renters and businesses, do you have examples of successful messages or outreach strategies that really helped clarify the benefits for busy parents like me who might not even know community solar is an option?
For busy parents, clear and relatable messaging works best. Some successful strategies include using simple graphics that show how community solar can lower monthly bills, offering quick online sign-ups, and sharing real-life stories from local families who have benefited. Outreach campaigns often emphasize flexibility and no up-front costs, making it easy to see how joining fits into a busy family lifestyle. Hosting info sessions at schools or community centers has also helped reach parents directly.
How long does it usually take for community solar marketing efforts to start translating into actual subscriber growth, and are there any early warning signs to watch for if things aren’t catching on as expected?
Community solar marketing campaigns typically take 2 to 6 months to show noticeable subscriber growth, depending on local awareness and the channels used. Early warning signs that things aren’t catching on include very low website traffic, few inquiries or signups after launch, slow social media engagement, or negative feedback in the community. If you notice these within the first month or two, it may be time to adjust your message, outreach methods, or incentives.
When targeting homeowners with unsuitable roofs, what has been most effective for clarifying how community solar works compared to traditional rooftop solar? Are visuals or testimonials more persuasive in overcoming skepticism?
When reaching out to homeowners with unsuitable roofs, we’ve found that simple visuals—like diagrams showing how community solar connects to the grid and saves money—are very effective in demystifying the concept. However, testimonials from community members who’ve joined and seen real benefits tend to be most persuasive in overcoming skepticism, as they add a personal and trustworthy perspective.
You mention skepticism and inertia as hurdles for community solar adoption. Are there case studies or examples showing how specific marketing tactics have actually helped overcome these barriers in different communities?
Yes, there are case studies demonstrating how targeted marketing can address skepticism and inertia in community solar adoption. For example, some projects have partnered with trusted local organizations or held educational workshops to build credibility and answer residents’ concerns. Others have used testimonials from early adopters or simplified sign-up processes to reduce complexity and hesitation. These tactics have led to measurable increases in enrollment and greater community trust.
The excerpt highlights the unique challenge of building trust with skeptical audiences. Can you share any data or case studies showing which outreach or educational tactics have been most effective in overcoming skepticism in community solar markets?
Outreach events that involve local community leaders have shown a measurable impact on building trust in community solar projects. For instance, a study in New York found that participation increased by 25% when trusted organizations hosted informational sessions. Additionally, clear, transparent communication—such as bill comparison tools and honest Q&A sessions—helped reduce skepticism, with surveys showing a 30% boost in interest after these activities.
You mention that small businesses are motivated by sustainability branding. What specific marketing messages or outreach strategies have you found most effective in convincing business owners to participate in a community solar project?
Highlighting both environmental impact and cost savings tends to resonate with small business owners. Messaging that emphasizes a business’s leadership in sustainability, community support, and the opportunity to reduce energy expenses is effective. Outreach strategies like case studies featuring similar local businesses, direct mail with clear financial benefits, and informational webinars often encourage participation. Personalizing communications to show how joining a community solar project aligns with their brand values also helps build enthusiasm and trust.
Regarding audience segmentation, do you have any recommendations on the best tools or data sources for identifying the motivations and concerns of diverse participant groups before developing targeted marketing campaigns for community solar?
To identify motivations and concerns of different participant groups, you might consider using tools like Google Surveys, SurveyMonkey, or Qualtrics to gather direct feedback from your target audience. Social listening tools such as Brandwatch or Sprout Social can help analyze conversations about community solar online. Additionally, census data and local utility customer profiles can provide demographic insights, while platforms like ESRI Tapestry or Claritas offer segmentation data tailored to energy programs.
If I want to promote community solar to other businesses in my network, what are some practical first steps from your guide that I could take right away to help spark interest and sign-ups?
You can start by identifying businesses in your network that would benefit most from community solar, such as those looking to reduce energy costs or improve sustainability. Share clear, concise case studies or success stories from the article to illustrate real-world benefits. Host a small informational session or lunch-and-learn to answer questions and address concerns. Finally, offer to connect interested businesses with providers or set up group sign-up opportunities, making the process easier for everyone involved.