So you have read up on how to operate and market a business dealing in solar.
How on earth do you actually go about getting started? There are many paths to the top of a mountain, and the requirements to start a solar business vary from location to location.
However, there are some typical steps that most solar business owners will need to get things started.
1.
Make a business plan.
As with any business, failure to structure your time, project the resources you will need and organize from the outset can lead to catastrophic failure.
Start by drafting various possibilities, testing them against what you know and against the experience of other people who have also started similar businesses.
Try to get a solid feel for what you can expect, but also prepare for delays, problems and the unexpected.
Always leave a buffer in your business plan in terms of time and finances that you believe will be needed.
Expect the unexpected.
2.
Educate yourself with solar how to books, classes and advice.
Whether you are in a state that requires specific degrees and credentials or are simply in need of more knowledge about business and solar power, you should consider the various educational options at your disposal.
In some cases a series of training sessions or workshops might be sufficient, while in others a degree may be required.
The degree needed also depends on what specific solar power specialty you want to concentrate on.
3.
If you need to get a license or some kind of certification, then consider that up front.
How long will it take you to get a license? How much will it cost? Are you sure you can do it? Is it entirely necessary and, even if it isn't required, will it be a helpful credential to boost your business? 4.
Contact manufacturers and create business arrangements.
Before you can start selling, you have to find out where you are going to buy from.
Get in touch with as many relevant solar manufacturers as possible.
Set up a pricing scale and ordering plan with one or more of the brands you reach out to.
Consider not only cost but brand name recognition, reliability and stock availability when making your decisions.
5.
Find a space to rent or buy.
Depending on your financial situation and freedom of movement, you need to think carefully about whether to rent or buy a space.
You can avoid both options altogether by becoming a digital middle-man with a drop-shipping operation behind you.
Once you establish the location of your business you will need to register some paperwork.
You'll use that physical address to get a tax ID, to legally register the business name and to get a separate business bank account.
6.
Whatever type of business you go into, including solar, how to attract customers in the beginning is intimidating.
Consider offering free or discounted solar installation packages in exchange for advertising.
Install signs outside or on the sides of houses where you've installed systems.
Think about ways to educate potential clients on the benefits of solar power and reasons to choose you as a solar installer.
In short, come up with ideas for promoting your business without investing too much capital right away.
Every business plan is different.
When you go into business selling solar, how you go about launching your company should be as unique as you are.
Pattern your strategies after the successes of similar businesses.
Also work on developing your own strategies.
Come to the table prepared for setbacks and braced for worst-case scenarios so you won't panic if something goes wrong sometimes.
Starting a solar business is hard work but it is also extremely rewarding.
The alternative energy industry is beginning a major boom making now the time to invest your energies in solar power.