Relay Climate Communications

Relay Climate Communications focuses on public relations and communications for the clean energy and climate tech sectors. The agency works primarily with startups and growth-stage companies that need strategic communications support but may not be ready for a full-time, in-house team. Based in Oakland, United States, the firm was founded by industry veterans Regan Keller and Laura Wetzel, who bring a combined 25 years of experience in climate-focused communications.

Services Tailored to Clean Energy and Climate Tech

Relay Climate Communications offers a range of PR and communications services designed specifically for companies working in renewable energy, clean technology, and climate innovation. Their approach is to function as an embedded communications team, working directly with founders and executive leadership. Typical services include:

• Strategic communications planning and messaging development
• Media relations and press outreach for climate and energy startups
• Brand reputation building and thought leadership positioning
• Crisis communications and issue management for emerging climate companies
• Content creation, including press releases, bylines, and executive materials
• Investor communications support for fundraising and public announcements

Rather than operating as a traditional external agency, Relay Climate Communications integrates into a client's organization. This model allows them to understand internal culture, product roadmaps, and business goals in depth, while avoiding the overhead of hiring a full in-house communications director.

Methodology: An In-House Model Without the Overhead

The core methodology behind Relay Climate Communications is a hybrid approach. The agency positions itself as an outsourced communications department that works on-site or closely with client teams. This structure is particularly suited for early-stage climate startups that need consistent, strategic communications but cannot justify the cost of a dedicated internal hire. Keller and Wetzel, along with their team, focus on sharpening messaging, shaping narrative, and building brand reputation from within the organization. The result is a communications function that feels integrated and responsive, rather than transactional.

Relay Climate Communications emphasizes a long-term partnership model. They aim to build deep familiarity with each client's technology, market position, and competitive landscape. This depth of understanding is critical in the fast-evolving clean energy sector, where regulatory changes, technological breakthroughs, and public perception can shift rapidly.

Location and Client Fit

Operating out of Oakland, United States, Relay Climate Communications is well-positioned to serve the growing climate tech ecosystem in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. The city's proximity to Silicon Valley's venture capital community and California's clean energy policy environment provides a natural base for working with innovative startups. While the agency can work remotely with clients across the country, its Oakland roots give it a strong understanding of the regional climate and energy landscape.

Relay Climate Communications is a strong fit for clean energy and climate startups that need strategic communications support but lack the budget or need for a full-time in-house team. It is also suitable for later-stage companies looking to professionalize their communications function without disrupting existing operations. Founders and executive teams who value a hands-on, collaborative approach to building brand reputation will find the agency's model appealing. For organizations that require a more traditional, campaign-based agency, Relay Climate Communications may be less appropriate, as its strength lies in ongoing, embedded partnerships rather than one-off projects.