Finite energy resources are sinking…
Energy consumption needs are sky-rocketing…
Thereby, environmentalists are emphasizing green, clean, and sustainable energy. From small-scale to big companies like Google or Amazon, businesses are investing in renewable energy. Every government is taking steps to promote renewable energy production and consumption.
What do these indicate? Nothing but ample opportunities around the renewable and sustainable energy sector!
Prime Challenge in Renewable Energy Business
The presumption is the main challenge for starting a renewable energy business. Most people think that the renewable energy sector is all about just renewable power generation. But, it is not true. It is also about renewable energy storage, distribution, technology, process, etc.
When entrepreneurs and business owners get this i.e. the nuances of renewable energy and the industry, then they can be a part of the renewable energy business at ease. In fact, this is considered the first step (Step 0) for starting a sustainable energy business.
Steps to Follow When Starting a Renewable or Sustainable Energy Business
Follow the steps given below to successfully land and operate in a renewable or sustainable energy business.
Step 1
The first and foremost step in starting a sustainable energy business is spotting your niche for the business. Indeed, a crucial step! Because this decides the other aspects of your business like financing, style of operations, buyers, sellers, and many more.
As mentioned earlier, the renewable energy business has a lot of things.
- You can start an installation or maintenance service.
- Or you can develop a product (manufacturing parts, energy-efficient technology, application, etc).
- Or build energy automation systems.
Which is your cup of tea? Find it!
Also, you can work in the renewable energy sector as an individual contributor without starting your business. Yes, as a consultant, project developer, technician, recruitment advisor, or financial analyst. Plus, you can open a franchise or become a partner to another established renewable energy business.
Based on your past work experiences, industry knowledge, and availability, you decide your contribution to the renewable energy sector.
Step 2
As a business owner or an investor, once you fix your niche in the sustainable energy business, you have to then work on the state/ federal regulation, policies, licenses, certifications, and permits. It requires immense effort to obtain the right certification or license from the right legal body. Because without this, you cannot operate your renewable energy business.
Step 3
Identifying potential suppliers and customers is the next big responsibility. Why?
- Most suppliers may look potential to you but not to themselves. Most small-scale businesses in this industry are short-term owing to poor industry knowledge, lack of investment and licensing. Thus, it is indispensable for you to properly do the background check before finalizing the right supplier.
- Your customers could be individuals, house owners, government, companies, industries, or anybody. So, understand the needs from their shoes. Only then you can offer the right renewable energy products or services to them. A chron article clearly explains the importance of identifying and interacting with potential customers.
Step 4
The next step is to create a viable business and marketing plan. It can include the executive summary of your brand/ business, product/ service information, technology or operational procedures, budgetary and financial goals, and a lot more that matters to an investor.
Step 5
Now that you have identified a niche, suppliers, & customers, and prepared a business plan, you can start inviting venture capitalists or investors to fund your business idea.
There are umpteen investors in the renewable energy market (either with an intent to promote sustainability or make money.) Both favor you! Just find the best investor for your business.
Step 6
What else? Time to kick-start the execution…