The US has taken back the honor of leading the world in investments in clean energy technology. China has led world investment since 2008.
The total amount invested in clean tech during 2011 was $260 billion, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance. Of that, the US invested about $56 billion, while China’s total came in at $47.4 billion. US investment was aided by two federal programs that expired at the end of the year and likely accounted for at least half the US total.
Low prices for solar panels hurt manufacturers but boosted business for installers. Total global investment in solar energy totaled $136.6 billion, up 36% even as panel prices fell by -50% last year. Investments in wind power fell by -17% to just under than $74.9 billion.
The report also notes that “fund-raising in public markets and investment in government and corporate research and development all fell last year.”
Travel Cards Are Getting Too Good To Ignore (sponsored)
Credit card companies are pulling out all the stops, with the issuers are offering insane travel rewards and perks.
We’re talking huge sign-up bonuses, points on every purchase, and benefits like lounge access, travel credits, and free hotel nights. For travelers, these rewards can add up to thousands of dollars in flights, upgrades, and luxury experiences every year.
It’s like getting paid to travel — and it’s available to qualified borrowers who know where to look.
We’ve rounded up some of the best travel credit cards on the market. Click here to see the list. Don’t miss these offers — they won’t be this good forever.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
Our expert who first called NVIDIA in 2009 is predicting 2025 will see a historic AI breakthrough.
You can follow him investing $500,000 of his own money on our top AI stocks for free.