The Cleantech Group and Deloitte have released preliminary second-quarter results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling $2.02 billion across 140 companies.
Cleantech venture investment was very similar to the previous quarter ($2.04 billion) and was up 43% from the same period a year ago. The number of deals recorded in the second quarter was down from a record high of 192 in the first quarter, but still represents a strong quarter by historic standards.
Corporate activity around cleantech innovation has continued to play an important role in maintaining the levels of investment activity. Corporations are becoming key participants in many of the largest venture and growth capital investment rounds.
The strengthening of corporate commitment to renewable energy and broader cleantech are evident in the strong growth of multinational corporate and U.S. utility investment for the first half of this year.
In the first half of this year, total announced capacity additions by U.S. utilities increased 197% compared to the second half of 2009 – from 1,393 MW to 4,134 MW, primarily driven by wind and solar.
Power purchase agreements rose 148% in the first half of this year compared to the second half of 2009 – from 621 MW to 1,539 MW, likely due to the pressure of meeting renewable portfolio standards in many U.S. states.
SOURCE: The Cleantech Group, Deloitte
