As the global wake-up-call on environmental sustainability gets louder, key global players, policymakers, and innovators are tirelessly seeking solutions. One such area that is garnering significant attention is clean technology (cleantech) – a rapidly growing sector that offers manifold investment opportunities. Events such as Collision, a tech conference held annually, serves as a platform for enlightening discussions around the prospects of cleantech.
This article is an exploration of the cleantech industry growth, investment opportunities, and the role of electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable energy solutions in leading this change.
1. Cleantech: The Investment Hotspot
The cleantech industry is creating a seismic shift in the global economy by producing innovative solutions to mitigate environmental damage. It encapsulates areas such as energy efficiency, clean energy production, environmental monitoring, and sustainable transportation, such as electric vehicles. The surge in the cleantech sector has been pegged to increased interest in environmental and sustainability concerns, leading to more entrepreneurs investing in the area to gain a competitive edge and contribute to a cleaner future.
Global cleantech investments have soared, with spikes in venture capital and private equity investments. According to a report by PWC, venture capital investments in cleantech surpassed USD 16 billion in 2019 alone. This trend signals a shift in prioritization towards sustainable, environmentally friendly technologies.
2. Electric Vehicles (EVs) Driving the Future
A key component leading the cleantech charge is electric vehicles. EVs are game-changers in the cleantech industry, investing in the growth of sustainable transportation systems. The EV market has seen significant growth and is projected to continue its rise. Research firm MarketsandMarkets predicts that the global EV market will reach a whopping USD 802.81 billion by 2027.
The evolution of EVs has a cascading effect on other sectors like energy. EVs, coupled with renewable energy solutions like solar or wind, could significantly reduce carbon emissions, thus boosting sustainable development endeavours.
3. Energy Experts Paving the Way
Energy sector experts play a pivotal role in advancing cleantech, primarily through renewable, more efficient energy sources. Renewables have become an important part of the global energy system, triggering greater interest in clean energy investment.
Interestingly, there’s a versatile mix of potential investee companies in the sector, from startups creating novel energy production systems to established firms exploring energy storage solutions. Consequently, the potential returns on investment in this sector are vast, from both a financial and environmental standpoint.
Distinctively, energy experts are crafting ingenious solutions, like integrating artificial intelligence with renewable energy, creating advanced grid systems, and incorporating digitization into energy generation and consumption. These innovations further solidify the enticing investment appeal of the renewable energy sector.
4. Tech Innovations Spurring Investment
The role of tech innovation in cleantech is paramount, with advancements in ICTs breathing new life into traditionally stagnant sectors. For instance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, and blockchain are playing their part in revitalising the renewable energy sector, presenting revolutionary enhancements in the efficiency, cost, and resilience of energy systems.
Overall, cleantech’s remarkable growth, the expansion of EV
