Forging Partnerships

Use Every Resource that is Available to You

A quick start strategy and a key to the long term success of any program is to coordinate with other efforts underway in your area, and to partner with groups who have resources and capabilities that complement your own or who already have campaigns underway that can be easily introduced in your service territory.

Start In Your Own Community

As an integral part of the community, you likely already have working relationships with local agencies and other departments of the local government who can join your effort. Likewise, local retailers and contractors are often cited as invaluable in getting the word out to customers and driving participation in utility programs.

Look Beyond Your Service Territory

Do neighboring utilities have programs that could be replicated in your community? If area contractors are already familiar with a program offered by another utility or area retailers are already carrying efficient equipment to meet the demand generated by that program, it should be on your short list – much of the work is already done!

Likewise many joint action agencies (JAAs) have energy efficiency programs and services available to members. Collaborating with other JAA members and/or neighboring utilities can help you stretch limited program budgets and deliver programs more cost effectively.

Join Regional or National Campaigns

Many regional market transformation groups and national programs like ENERGY STAR offer opportunities to join turnkey campaigns. By partnering with them, your utility may be able to leverage already negotiated rebate programs with national retailer partners, region-wide promotional efforts, or existing training programs.