Third Party Initiatives, State of California

These energy efficiency programs are funded by California ratepayers under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.

Small Business Energy Alliance (SBEA): After developing an identity and brand for SBEA, Geltz Communications faced the challenge of delivering the message of energy efficiency to hard-to-reach small businesses. These businesses lack easy access to program information and, generally, do not participate in energy efficiency programs due to language, business size, geographic remoteness, or lease constraints.

Geltz developed the marketing and communications strategy to bridge the barriers. Using a wide variety of communications and education channels, Geltz successfully targeted general, trade, and ethnic media, local governments, property managers, chambers of commerce, community based organizations, and contractors.

Deliverables include a Web site (www.sbeaonline.com), marketing collateral, success stories, fact sheets, energy surveyor shirts and badges, and a trade show booth.

South Bay Energy Rewards (SBER): The SBER program was developed with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments to help residents of the South Bay area of Southern California save energy. The program offered coupons for dollars off ENERGY STAR^® appliances and products at local retailers, promotes energy conservation at home, and offers apartment owners funding to upgrade to energy-efficient lighting.

Geltz Communications developed SBER's marketing and communications strategy, retailer training and coupon delivery program, and community outreach program.

Deliverables include a Web site (www.energyrewards.org), marketing collateral, radio and cable television PSA's, cable television scripts, training materials, retailer signage, and articles in newsletters and local media.