Politicians

Characteristics:

Are trusted opinion leaders and powerful stakeholders in their community; can ensure the participation of many people
Potential role:

Multipliers

Location:

urban and rural areas

Communication messages

Key messages to reach politicians

While many key messages apply to all target groups, there are also some special key messages that can help you get through to politicians.

✓ The investment pays off for your citizens.

✓ Improve your position as a pioneer and innovation leader! Be a role model for your community.

✓ Investing in clean energy means investing in better living conditions and creating local jobs.

Avoid these messages

→ Statements that are too complicated to understand

→ Unclear information about the costs

→ Messages that run counter to their political beliefs

About politicians

Financial payback versus environmental concerns

Depending on their political leanings, they focus on financial aspects or the environment. What they all have in common is their wish to be re-elected. Local value creation, added value for citizens and payback of the investment are therefore important factors. Investments should be presented as lucrative for the municipal budget or beneficial for the local environment, or both.

Attitude towards green energy

Politicians’ attitude towards green energy very much depends on the individual person and on the targets of their party. Nevertheless, many local politicians work across party lines and are motivated to improve their local environment. They should be made aware that community energy projects could improve their image and attract new potential voters.

Open versus apprehensive towards new technology

Their handling of new technologies is as varied as their attitude towards green energy. However, given the importance of politicians as multipliers und opinion leaders, it is essential to convince them that technical knowledge is not a prerequisite for participation. Best practice examples of how community energy projects actually work may help them to encourage citizens to get involved.

Community spirit

Community spirit defines the work of politicians. They need to find consensus and collaborate with other democratic parties. They need to fulfil citizens’ expectations and be close to them. All of this strengthens them when it comes to convincing many people to take part in community projects. Conversely, every successful project that they support helps their political campaigns.

Challenges: Possible reasons for not taking part in energy communities/collective actions

→ Competing political approaches

→ High risk aversion in case of project failure

→ Assumed lack of support from the public (public opinion)

Touchpoints: How to come into contact with politicians

How do I reach politicians?

To see how to engage your audience, view our communication activities and white label materials. To inform politicians specifically, these actions may help:

→ Project flyers

→ Personal outreach

Where do I reach politicians?

→ Local/regional events

→ Municipal council meetings

→ Election campaign events

For detailed step-by-step guides on how to get in touch with this target group, see How to reach Multipliers.