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About the Episode:

Solstice is revolutionizing access to solar energy, showcasing that inclusivity in renewable energy is not just achievable but critical for industry success. Co-founded by Sandhya Murali, Solstice stands out in community solar for their focus on education, engagement, and strategic marketing. This conversation highlights Solstice’s efforts to build trust, nurture long-term relationships, and enable diverse community participation in solar energy. Hear how Solstice's mission-driven approach and creative strategies are paving the way for a sustainable, equitable energy future, and learn how community solar offers significant savings and environmental benefits to a broader audience than just environmentally conscious early-adopters.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Sandhya Murali:

• LinkedIn | X | Email

Check out Solstice:

LinkedIn | Website | X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Email

Key Takeaways:

1. Community Engagement and Trust: Solstice's approach to community solar emphasizes the importance of building trust and fostering inclusive participation through comprehensive education and transparent communication. This foundational strategy not only demystifies solar energy for homeowners, renters, businesses, nonprofits, and others but also establishes a strong, trust-based relationship between the community and solar projects.
2. Strategic Marketing and Relationship Building: By implementing strategic marketing techniques that prioritize long-term community relationships, Solstice ensures the sustainability of community solar initiatives. This method goes beyond mere transactions to nurture a deeper connection with communities, reinforcing the mutual benefits of solar energy and ensuring ongoing engagement and support.
3. Proactive Community Involvement and Economic Incentives: Solstice's proactive engagement with communities from the early stages of solar projects, combined with the use of economic incentives, catalyzes renewable energy adoption. This approach not only encourages communities to embrace solar energy but also empowers them by highlighting the economic and environmental benefits.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“It all starts from a point of education, explaining what community solar is, what are the benefits to the local community, and we have a referral program where we can actually contribute wealth back into those communities.”

— Sandhya Murali

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

SUNGROW focuses on integrated energy storage system solutions, including PCS, lithium-ion batteries and energy management system. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/sungrow

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ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 20 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.