How Big Are Investments in Clean Tech?
Sep 26, 2007
Big. Very big.
According to a press release issued today by Ernst & Young and Dow Jones VentureOne, worldwide venture capital investments in clean technology companies totalled a whopping $1.1 billion in the first half of 2007. All in all, 2007 VC investments in the clean tech sector are expected to increase by 35% over last year. And the U.S. is leading the way with a total of 71 new investment deals worth $893 million closing in the first part of 2007.
In the U.S., solar energy is drawing the most investment, while wind power is the biggest sector in Europe. Here's a quote that sums up just how hot Ernst & Young and VentureOne think clean tech is (and they're not alone):
"Clean technology has moved from vision to reality, and it's now a priority on the CEO agenda of every company from the entrepreneurial growth companies to the multinational market leaders," said Gil Forer, Global Director of Ernst & Young's Venture Capital Advisory Group. "The accelerating venture capital investments reflect the growing importance of the sector. A strong innovation pipeline and confidence in the global drivers supporting growth in the clean technology market -such as government policies, consumer awareness, energy prices and concern about carbon emissions-are driving venture capital investment."
Tags:
Alternative Energy, Clean Tech
