Besides the sun, the other gleaming element that brings brilliance to the UK’s solar sector is Customer experience (CX). Whereas the solar panels are immersing the rays, the companies are embracing and thriving for the new X factor, i.e., delivering consistently remarkable CX. We all know the importance of sustainability and climate change in the present scenario and the desire to switch to more sustainable resources. However, the journey to a greener lifestyle also involves multiple questions regarding fees, installation and durability. We want the companies to be transparent and helpful, as we are interested in meaningful conversation and not waiting for music.
So, let’s read and understand how CX is bringing lustre to the UK solar energy sector.
As per latest data on Statista in the United Kingdom, electricity production in the Solar Energy market is expected to reach 14.43 billion kWh by 2025.
The market is forecasted to grow at an annual rate of 1.97%, reflecting the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2029.
Solar Without the Headaches: The Power of a Smooth Onboarding
The latest data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) reveals that around 1.3 million households in the UK have adopted solar panel installations . Switching to solar energy should lead to a feeling of contentment and not an examination. Adopting solar energy should be like a brisk walk in a park, and this can be achieved through user-friendly websites, clear pricing plans, and online remote consultations.
A few features offered by good providers include:
1) Intelligent, plain and straightforward communication- Let’s accept it: we necessarily don’t need to know what solar plates are made of, and that doesn’t affect our desire to go green.
2) Transparent pricing and endowment selections- No one wishes to search for the “hidden” costs.
3) Simplified deployment timeline- Switching to renewables is the need of the hour and should be done ASAP.
Self-Service & Support: Giving Customers the Power
Salesforce in its State of the Connected Customer report, mentioned that the company’s experience is as important as its products and services for 86% of consumers.
As a matter of fact, most of us try to solve an issue before we call customer service. And thus, features like a customer portal, AI-enabled chatbots, and real-time tracking are trailblazers.
• Monitoring solar savings in real time- Saving money and climate simultaneously is a sheer pleasure.
• Prompt replies through AI chatbots- We definitely don’t like the sad waiting music.
• Timely maintenance heads-up- Upkeep sounds better than unexpected breakdowns.
A proactive and seamless self-service CX keeps customers satisfied and pleased about their solar service provider’s selection.
Solar Smiles: Make your satisfied customers your brand advocates
Prioritizing your CX not only gives you revenue and customers, it gives you brand advocates who endorse you.
• Referral schemes- the best of both worlds: you are rewarding your customers and gaining new customers, making money and saving the climate!
• Reviews and consumer-generated content- Nothing appeals more than an anecdote particularly when its on social media.
• Gamification- Energy-saving leader boards and hyping about saving the environment.
According to the Global Market Outlook For Solar Power 2023 – 2027 report, by 2030, solar energy will probably comprise up to 20% of the UK’s total electricity generation. As I mentioned above, nothing appeals more than anecdotes, especially when it involves saving money on energy bills. Make people talk and discuss about you. Word of mouth acts faster than billboards!
Sustainability Meets Seamlessness: The Future of Solar CX
The race to net zero: Tracking the green industrial revolution through IP As per the UK government’s research publication The race to net zero: Tracking the green industrial revolution through IP.
CX will be the winning hand that can work to persuade property holders and companies to embrace green energy choices, i.e. solar power.
Let the customer see the future:
Augmented Reality tools- They enable the consumer to see solar panels on their terraces before installation.
Blockchain-powered solar tracking- People who don’t have solar panels can buy energy and learn about the source.
Hyper personalised energy usage plans- Plans based on individual requirements, lifestyle and weather conditions.
Solar can be much more than green energy- It can be a great source for making the customer climate warriors.
The Shining Future of CX in Solar
According to the data from the UK Customer Satisfaction Index (UKCSI), energy companies continue to be among the lowest-rated industries, scoring 69.8% in July 2024, compared to the all-sector average of 75.8%.
CX can be a propellant for the success of the solar energy sector in the UK. The secret soup for any company thriving in the solar sector can be easy onboarding, clear pricing, AI chatbots and seamless self-service. Companies need to make the customers realise that adopting green power is also rewarding and exciting. At the same time, it’s convenient and has a smooth switch.
The future of the solar sector can’t be just limited to photovoltaic plates and energy generation; it’s about reaching more people and creating experience. With its promise of a green future, the UK is moving forward to embrace renewable energy sources, and the companies that will keep CX at the epicentre of their marketing strategy will shine brighter than others.
Solar Energy – United Kingdom
UK Solar Market| Insights: Growth, Policies and more!
State of the Connected Customer report, Salesforce
Global Market Outlook For Solar Power 2023 – 2027
The race to net zero: Tracking the green industrial revolution through IP
Ofgem sets out vision for customer service culture change to make energy sector best in Britain
