Despite a few quiet murmurs of a new “bubble,” venture capitalists are generally very optimistic about the clean-tech energy and conservation sector, according to data collected through a recent survey from the tax and advisory firm KPMG LLP.
The survey polled 200 venture capitalists, investors, entrepreneurs, and bankers and found that a whopping 77% of respondents said venture investment in clean energy start-up and growth companies will increase in 2010 compared with 2009. 15% of the respondents are highly optimistic and predict the increase will top 20%.
A noteworthy trend highlighted by the investors and entrepreneurs is a shift toward storage and efficiency – 38% of respondents predict this sector will receive the most investment in 2010.
According to Entrepreneur, research done by Cleantech Group shows that venture capital investment in clean technology has already overtaken IT and biotech to be the biggest sector of venture capital investment.
Another indicator of the growth in clean tech investment is the recent announcement that Intel (Nasdaq:INTC) has brought together 24 venture firms to invest $3.5 billion into start-ups over the next two years, with the green and clean tech sector expected to benefit the most.
All of this optimism may be due in part to the Obama administration’s support of the clean energy sector. A steady stream of stimulus money has begun to flow out of the White House, and distribution is expected to continue over the next couple years. Investors tend to be more confident when there is stability and predictability in the marketplace, which the Recovery Act provides.
Whatever the reason for their confidence, investors seem unwavering in their excitement about the future of the clean tech sector.
Brendan DeMelle is a freelance author and researcher focusing primarily on clean energy and has over a decade of experience in energy and environmental issues. He previously served as Research Associate for Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. at the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Any opinion contained in this article is solely that of the writers, and does not necessarily shapes or reflect the editorial opinions of Energy Boom.
Energy Boom content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be advice regarding the investment merits of, or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of, any security identified on, or linked through, this site.
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