How to Start a Renewable Energy Consulting Business

Renewable energy is no longer considered an unusual or extreme product. As more companies, both small and large, are looking for ways to save money and benefit the environment, consultants who specialize in renewable energy are becoming extremely sought after. If you are looking to start a consulting business in this area, however, you will need to learn more about both the technical and the social implications of the system.

Instructions

1. Educate yourself about green energy and alternative energy sources. While you may work with only one type of renewable energy system in your consulting business, you need to be able to provide support and information to companies that ask about other options. On the same basis, learn not only about new energy sources, but also about experimental technologies and ways to lower the impact of traditional energy on the environment.

2. Partner with people in the know-how of technology and equipment. You will need experts who can provide factual information on how to start and install alternative energy sources, as well as people who can provide data on financing these projects (the government may help) and contacting suppliers.

3. Learn about Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). RECs allow companies that produce renewable energy to be credited for it (one REC equals 1,000 kWh of electricity) and to then profit in the open market by selling these certificates. Understanding how the REC-crediting program works may help you obtain more consulting business, as many companies are looking to recoup the initial investment of setting up a renewable source of energy on their premises.

4. Set up both a website and a blog if you can. A blog is especially useful if you don't have a professional background or degree in a technical subject. You can always use the blog to answer questions and help you establish yourself as an expert. A website, on the other hand, can be used to showcase your portfolio and to explain the services you offer.

5. Work along architects to offer complementary services and guidance. This is a great way to start if you don't have experience or cannot find your niche in the business. Working with an architect will also help you provide consultations to private homeowners, who may be open to considering renewable energy sources for their homes at the time of the design, but may not want to invest in it once the home is finished.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need a series of specialized certifications if you plan on providing technical consultations. Otherwise, your job as a consultant will be limited to ideas and planning, and you will need to refer the owners to technical experts for the actual setup.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish