16
February
2007
|
04:40 AM
America/Los_Angeles

2.16.07: Cleantech investment skyrocketing

VC investment in cleantech companies hit $3.6 billion in 2006 (that includes North American and European investors), a 45% increase over 2005's $2.5 billion. The fourth quarter saw a 10% increase of investment over the previous year, from $704 million to $775 million, according to a Cleantech Venture Network press release.




Naturally, most of that money - 72% - went into energy-related investment. That represents a $2.6 billion investment, double the $1.3 billion invested in 2005.


Still, Nicholas Parker, co-founder of the Cleantech Venture Network, said other sectors also benefited from the investment boom.

“Energy was the most prominent beneficiary, but companies that specialize in transportation, water, air and environmental technologies and other categories also attracted venture capital,” he said.