cleantech up despite credit crunch

Interesting read on Earth2Tech today about how VC investments for the cleantech industry is still breaking records (well, it’s easy to go up from a smaller amount) despite the credit crunch.

Most of the cash is going into algae startups, (making fuel out of scum), smart grid companies and thin film (read the article for more).

But…

…don’t expect the party to last. The Cleantech Group says it expects a slowdown in the coming quarter. There’s no way this overall economic slowdown won’t hurt sectors that need extensive capital to move into production, like biofuels and solar. We’re thinking less capital intensive plays, like green software, will become more popular in the coming months.

Something to think about…

With all of the layoffs going on in the financial industry (all over the world, and hitting many other sectors), where are those intelligent and talented workers going to go? Hopefully many of these people will shift their talents to growing industries like this- i.e. building a more sustainable energy sector.

Looking forward to a cleaner Ontario

Ontario, my home province in Canada, is making me proud.

Lots of renewable energy investments going on in the region. Enough so that we’re making waves in California – the mecca of tech (and now cleantech).

So, while the West tries to beat out the (enormous) amount of bitumen from the tar sands (profitable sure, sustainable, not at all), I like how Ontario is positioning itself.  A good question now would be what the government is doing towards smaller generating renewable power for the First Nations up north, where access to the grid is limited. Also, maybe we need to do a little bit more in terms of conservation… looks like Canadians in general aren’t so happy with government action in this regard.

Remember, both US Presidential Candidates are pretty pro-environment.  (Although Cleantech investors back Obama over McCain six to one). So, once the policies come in – companies who are ready to pounce will benefit.

The winds are changing…

And on that topic, the winds are changing here. It all of a sudden feels like Fall. But, I’ll be home in less than two weeks (first time since I left for Finland last Aug) and I couldn’t be more excited.