Keys to Success

Building an Online Advocacy Community

Solar energy already enjoys huge popular support–approaching 90%, according to most opinion polls. And the voices calling for greater political support for Solar are becoming louder as they respond to daily reminders of the threat of global warming. But these voices cannot represent political power if they are disunited. To positively affect national policy, these voices must be harmonized, focused on specific solutions and communicated widely and effectively.

Making the Case with Leaders

The key to changing policy is in transmitting the will of the people to policy leaders, fighting vested interests and cutting through the complacency and defeatism that has too long characterized America’s energy policy. A special group of Solar Nation partners focuses on this effort, using the media to create the conditions for policy change. Some partners communicate policy needs to public leaders through established channels, such as the Western Governors’ Association, the National Governors Association, the National Conference of State Legislatures, the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and others. These partners also sponsor forums in which like-minded regulatory leaders can share ideas and create real movement toward permanent change.

Other partners share their expertise directly with national, state and local regulatory and legislative leaders, meeting them face-to-face and providing accurate, honest answers to their questions and concerns. Because we’ve found that when the whole truth is told, the verdict is “YES” for solar!

Read about Solar Nation’s strategy in detail.

Implementing Key Policies in Strategic States

If a popular mandate were the only factor, there would be a solar installation on every roof. The key to effecting change is in using the political power of large numbers of voters where it counts most, to promote policies favorable to solar energy development in every state.

Read about key policies for solar energy.