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earth, the final frontier

Clean Energy, Clean Environment

We are at a cross roads in human history, we can choose to continue on as we have been, or we can make a change to improve our future and quite possibly the future for several generations to come. We are here to promote energy independence, a better environment with a higher return on investment for your hard earned money. It is what I believe in, it is why I am in the solar business.

To sell on line or not to sell on line

17 Oct 07 | General Business

I am currently debating on whether or not to have an online renewable energy store.  It seems like quite a bit of work to set up, and there would also be some liability issues associated with retail sales of renewable energy products, especially wind equipment.

On the other hand, it may be a good side income stream, particularly if I can get the manufactures/distributors to drop ship directly to the customer (that way I am not actually handling the merchandise).

There are currently several retail online renewable energy stores.  When I compare there online prices to the wholesale prices I am getting from distributors, I can see about a 8-10 percent markup.  Not too bad considering that there is minimal overhead.

The other downside I can see would be customer returns and restocking.  Also, I have seen quite a few shady characters in my life.  There are likely more than a handful that would likely try create some scam or something.

The other question is how much time would be taken up with answering customer questions?  Obviously, the online sales would be mostly to do it yourselfer’s.  This could mean that they would expect someone to tell them step by step on how to do a solar installation.  They may also install the equipment wrong, damage it, et cetera, then expect a refund.
Likely I will have a product feature section, which introduces the equipment to potential customers, but not necessarily sell directly to the public unless I am going to install it as well.  I think that is the best compromise.

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17 Oct 07 | General Business
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Reader's Comments

  1. Dean | October 18th, 2007 at 5:36 pm

    Hi HVS,

    Thats a wonderful idea. I think the best way to get around the answering questions grind might be to supply ample documentation via a blog, like this one, or a really thorough Frequently Asked Questions section. Being as helpful as possible on the documentation could alleviate some strain. In regards to developing your site, it will take time, but what a fun and rewarding project.

  2. Paul Thurst | October 19th, 2007 at 10:28 am

    Thanks Dean. I agree with you that having as much information available on line would be a help. I may give it a try and see if it is profitable or not. I generally think that having some type of retail outlet would be good for business.



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