Operation Sunbeam: A proven solution to NIMBYism

Grassroots public affairs program that helps get solar developments permitted.

Sustainable PR has the know-how, proprietary methods, and proven track record to help renewable energy companies overcome the NIMBYism that threatens their projects.

Sustainable PR has been a vital partner for us rallying support for our solar development projects in communities across New York State. Their ability to identify, organize and mobilize environmental advocates to write letters of support and speak at municipal meetings has significantly contributed to our ability to permit our projects.

– Jennifer Pickett, CFO of Cipriani Energy Group

Sustainable PR Expertise

Our Solution

Operation Sunbeam is an integrated media, public relations, and community engagement campaign aimed at preempting, responding to, and neutralizing NIMBY opposition.

Our Method

Analyze local & regional values

Before our team engages with a community directly, we dedicate time to a listening tour where we canvas residents, business owners, and local decision-makers to develop our understanding of the community’s attitudes toward renewable energy. The insights we glean from our conversations frame our messaging for your campaign.

Conduct in-person and digital research on the community and its attitude toward renewable energy
Utilize media monitoring & social media listening tools to push the community-wide dialogue in a favorable direction for the project

Develop topline messaging

We develop effective messaging that centers on the local economy where your projects are based.

Emphasizes the developer’s commitment to the community
Reflects socio-economic trends
Focuses on the project’s environmental and economic benefits

Identify & engage local support

Using a combination of “boots on the ground” outreach and proprietary research methods, our team cultivates relationships with local contacts, identifying reliable supporters, “top-talkers,” and key surrogates to support your projects.

Develop supporter lists using a “hub-and-spoke” strategy
Equip supporters with messaging they need to advocate for the project
Activate supporters to take specific actions, such as submitting letters of support and attending public meetings