1. Growth in the renewable sector will be largely consumer driven. Much to the surprise of the early policy drivers, legislative action is now struggling to keep up with private industry development and consumer demand. While state RPS have been fairly successful so far, national renewable energy standards and other market development face tough competition with other pressing issues like healthcare, economic reform, national security and midterm elections. However, consumers who are offered a choice to purchase affordable greener energy will almost always do so. As long as we continue to make these choices easy and attractive for consumers, this behavior will serve as a major catalyst for development and ultimately change the way we view our energy sources. Viridian’s products are tailor-made to match this nuanced market demand!

2. Being “green” isn’t just about feeling good about yourself. Many private sector executives stressed the benefits of process efficiency, tax incentives, and cost savings when a corporation implements “no waste” policies and innovative energy initiatives. While goodwill is often the most marketable benefit for a company’s public image and their internal staff relations, if you’re trying to sign up a small business make sure they realize the importance of long-term investment in their future and sustainability. Consumers at home and in business alike will save money from smart choices and improvements in energy efficiency.

3. Know what being “green” means. If you understand the basics of the renewable energy markets, your Viridian sales pitch will also improve. It can be tough to sell the concept of green energy to a skeptic, but if you know your facts you will be able to provide useful and convincing information. Check out Viridian’s green page to brush up, or show customers the green market pages in your starter kit.

4. Be truthful in your green claims. While the environmental marketing frenzy of the past few years has helped put “organic” deodorant and “all natural” laundry detergent on the shelves of your local mega-mart, renewable energy isn’t just a trend. With green knowledge (point #3) comes an obligation to tell the truth. Uninformed marketers or “greenwashers” may discredit genuine green marketers like yourself, but luckily you are armed with specific knowledge about how and why your product is doing something better for the environment.