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.”
Take This Retirement Quiz To Get Matched With An Advisor Now (Sponsored)
Are you ready for retirement? Planning for retirement can be overwhelming, that’s why it could be a good idea to speak to a fiduciary financial advisor about your goals today.
Start by taking this retirement quiz right here from SmartAsset that will match you with up to 3 financial advisors that serve your area and beyond in 5 minutes. Smart Asset is now matching over 50,000 people a month.
Click here now to get started.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
