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Health & Fitness

Behind the Scenes in Renewable Energy – Meet the People who Drive Solar

In our continuing effort to highlight the people that make up the solar workforce, we had a chat with our very own Dave Gersz. Dave walks us through how he got involved in the renewable energy industry and offers us some insider tips on the key skills needed for his position.

How did you get involved with solar?

I was working in the mortgage industry and a friend started with another solar company.  He said that solar was going to be the next big thing.  I researched some of the best companies in San Diego using the SD Business Journal.  I called the top 25 companies one morning.  That same afternoon while stopped at a stoplight, I saw that the car next to me had a Stellar Solar sign on it.  I remembered the name Michael Powers from my calls that morning, so I asked him to roll down his window.  We exchanged information and met for coffee a few days later.  He said that they were not hiring sales people but I talked him into giving me a chance.  That was 5 years ago.

What does your role as a PV Specialist involve- can you walk us through the process?

Being a true sales professional involves listening to my clients' needs.  I recommend the perfectly sized system for them based on their energy history and budget.  I present payment options and explain the benefits of going solar.  I think that my clients appreciate that I have their true concern at heart, instead of just trying to sell them something.

What are some of the key skills you need as a PV specialist?

You need to have a lot of energy and patience.  I end up giving the same presentation about 20 times per week and people ask mostly the same questions every time.  I think that I have gotten pretty good at conveying my message without rushing through the presentation.  Another key skill is respect.  I respect my clients' time, so I try to be early to every meeting.

What’s your favorite part of the job?

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My favorite part of the job is getting emails from past customers who tell me about their $5/month electric bills with SDGE.  They reaffirm that going solar was the best financial decision that they have made.

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