INDUSTRY LEADERS 360GENERATORS.COM AND THE EGSA TALK ABOUT THE ON-SITE POWER GENERATION MARKET FOR 2008
2007 has been a year of change and expansion for the power generation industry, from the increased attention on alternative methods of power generation to combat and assist our fight against global warming, to the fluctuation of the US and International markets. However, with all the talk of a potential recession both here and abroad, it can be easy to forget all the expansion.
To get the straight scoop, I corresponded with Jalane Kellough, the Executive Director of the Electrical Generation System Association (EGSA), the world’s largest trade association dedicated to on-site power generation, and Jim McKinley, the Principal of 360Generators, a leading online customer referral site specializing in commercial, residential, and marine generator customer referrals. Both offered their thoughts on the on-site power generation for 2008.
When asked what common trends we could expect to see back for 2008, Kellough definitely cited the continuing “emphasis on education” in the industry, encouraged through the EGSA “On-Site Power schools and Generator Technician Certification Programs.” In the climate of ever-evolving technology, education is a must-have to keep current and effective in the industry. One of McKinley’s priorities for the New Year is also education. “We would like to spread the word about the benefits of the Internet for the on-site power generation industry. Our website receives an extensive amount of leads, just from search results. The Internet is a great resource for the industry.”
In addition to keeping tab on the exponential technological growth of the industry, Kellough mentions that “identifying and penetrating new markets both overseas and domestically” is another consistent trend we are likely to see back. “The Internet is helpful when entering into new markets, as it can increase your exposure almost effortlessly,” McKinley adds.
There is also the seasonal aspect of the business to consider; the “Southeast Atlantic costal region should still see increased activity throughout hurricanes season, while the Western states should see an increase during ‘fire season,’ and the Midwest and Northeast during the winter months” Kellough says.
The slow season doesn’t have to be painful, though, according to McKinley. “There is a lot to be said for finding an additional source of customer referrals, or leads. A lead referral service can be a great way to find additional customers without expending a lot of much-needed revenue.” Kellough agrees that planning for the slow times is a necessity, as being able to meet your customer’s demands, no matter the season, should be an industry-wide goal.
“One thing I know for sure,” says McKinley, “is that I am committed to doing business with integrity in the New Year, and am excited to be a member of the EGSA.” And, with their shared commitment to education and the betterment of the industry, I think we can all agree that 2008 is going to be a great year in on-site power generation!
The author, Rachel Patterson, has been following the development of 360Generators.com since thier inception, and would like to thank the EGSA in general, and Jalane Kellough in particular, for the interview and information.
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