Boat And Rv Trader

Solar For Business | Renewable Green Energy Sources

Solar For Business

For an outsider, today seems like solar power’s heyday. It’s all over the news, the technology is advancing, and the government has plenty of incentives out there. But many solar insiders and installers are doing their best Jerry Maguire impression and saying ‘Show me the money!’ They’re wondering where all the customers are hiding. I’ve heard dozens of contractors say that they have tons of ‘want to’ prospects that they just cannot turn into ‘will do’ customers even with all the incentives out there.

The fact is most people are holding onto those purse strings tight. Energy conservation is pretty low on the list for your potential customers when their worried about their jobs, health care, and home values. But there are some ways you can stimulate your business until the economy recovers. Here’s a few ideas for growing your business by making it ’smaller’.

Solar for RVs

You know who still has disposable income? Upper middle class retirees. You know what they do with most of their time? They chase the sunshine in a truck big enough to live in. You know what those machines need? You guessed it, Rv Solar panels. By some estimates there are 30,000,000 RV enthusiasts and even in last year’s down economy they bought 70,000 recreational vehicles. Chances are there is a hungry market near you. There are complete kits that make installation a cinch. Start at the RV storage lots with signs and fliers. Try the local dealerships too, even if they already have the ability to install them they may need mounting systems, panels, and charge controllers. Try an ad in your local RV trader magazine too.

Solar for Boats

Talk about disposable income, boat owner’s fit the bill. Even more so than RV’s, boats need a reliable power source for longer cruises. Thanks to the DC systems already in place on boats and the ample sunshine they get, PV is ideal for boating applications. Often times a panel in conjunction with a small wind turbine can provide 90% of a boats power needs. Try marketing at local marinas, and make sure all the boat storage and repair shops in your area know your name.

Solar Golf Carts

There are simple, affordable kits that attach right to the roof and will turn that little machine green. They will also qualify for the 30% federal tax credit for solar power. With volatile gas prices and more towns accepting them on regular roads, golf carts aren’t just for golf anymore. Try a direct mail flier to golf-cart friendly communities. And of course you have the golf course market; start with the country clubs. They can reduce their power bills and show their members their eco-consciousness. Plus businesses can depreciate 100% of the of the cost of the systems in year one. Offer to outfit a cart with a panel and your logo at cost to get started. Also consider sponsoring golf tournaments in your area.

National RV Trader, May 2010 Issue

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Aero Trader, September 1996

Aero Trader, July 1996