Wind, Solar and Hydro R & D Firm

There are many ways for people to incorporate alternative energy sources into their lives. The three main types are solar, wind and hydro power. Science is constantly coming up with new and better ways to use these power sources, and they send these ideas to other firms for further testing, development and if necessary, changing so that they are eventually ready to go to the consumers. Some large corporations have these departments already in place while others will have to send their concepts to outside R & D firms.

What type of background to do I need for this concept?

A science background is a must for complete understanding from early concept to consumer-ready marketable idea. Additionally, a background in construction or mechanical skills is a positive as is knowledge of green resources and energy forms.

What license, registration or certifications do I need?

First, your firm would probably need to have a contractor's license. If not, then a business license would be required instead. (It might be possible that both would be needed, based on the area you are located in and the type of work you will be doing). You would also need to have green certification, issued after inspection of your operations. Finally, you might be required to carry special insurance types for the business and the employees.

Who is the competition?

Everyone is rushing along trying to find the next big, green concept first. You will be in competition with other independent firms as well as the larger companies and manufacturers who have their own R & D firms in-house.

What are the risks?

The inability to get any of the concepts you are given up and off the ground is a potential risk and a very frustrating one at that. You may find yourself almost ready to unveil something only to find that another company has beaten you to it.

What are the potential pay offs?

The ability to help people harness and use alternative energy sources more effectively is a huge motivator. For every ten people that you can give viable wind, solar or hydro energy to, that is ten times as much energy that does not have to come from coal, oil, wood or gas.

What are the general start-up costs?

For most R & D firms, especially those in the green firm, the funding comes from grants or subsidies from major corporations or the government. Applying for these grants is the hard part and may be more work than some firms are able to handle. Some firms turn this task over to professional grant writers. Once the funding is in place, the firm will then be given a number of projects to work on along with deadlines for a progress report for each one.

Who is the target audience?

Any company or science lab that might have an idea that needs to be developed from the drawing board to the consumer's home.

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