I've written a few posts recently about the essentials needed for a thriving cleantech and renewable tech ecosystem. Challenges always have Solutions...... So here are four key observations from the past few years working in the sector: 1. Capital is crucial. ⚠️ Challenge: cleantech initiatives require significant investment, but acquiring funds is often a stumbling block for startups. ✅ Solution: we need more public and private investment initiatives dedicated to helping promising cleantech startups scale. 2. Consistent policy matters. ⚠️ Challenge: the unpredictable political climate can lead to erratic policies, making it hard for cleantech companies to build any kind of momentum. ✅ Solution: formulating consistent, supportive policies at global and national levels can offer a more stable platform for cleantech growth. 3. New tech must play well with old. ⚠️ Challenge: new cleantech innovations can clash with older systems, creating inefficiencies and operational headaches. ✅ Solution: designing cleantech to integrate smoothly with existing infrastructure will ensure it enhances rather than complicates. 4. Education drives adoption. ⚠️ Challenge: there's a widespread need for greater awareness of the benefits and sustainability impacts of cleantech. ✅ Solution: increase education at all societal levels, with startups taking an active role in informing their audience from a client and public-centric viewpoint. If we can overcome these challenges, I'm sure it will energize the cleantech industry, and propel us towards a more sustainable future. #Cleantech #RenewableEnergy #startupecosystem
Adam Ferguson
6mo
While capital and policy are vital, fostering a culture of collaboration and cross-industry partnerships could be the secret sauce IMO! 🌱
Rob Bradley
6mo
Why is 'Cleantech' wind and solar?
Katja Obring
6mo
Very insightful post, EdieAnn Feigles, and I really like your focus on the solutions. Challenges are all too real, and often glossed over, but it's important to remember that, as you say, challenges have solutions.
Daveed Sidhu
6mo
Your insights shed light on the multifaceted journey of the cleantech and renewable tech sectors, emphasizing that while obstacles exist, they are not insurmountable. The emphasis on capital, policy stability, tech integration, and education as cornerstones for industry growth is not only astute but also actionable. By addressing these areas, we pave the way for an ecosystem that not only thrives but also accelerates the global transition to sustainable energy. Your call to action, particularly on public and private sectors rallying to support cleantech innovation and on the crucial role of education in driving adoption, highlights a collective responsibility. This conversation is a beacon for those navigating the industry, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts to foster a greener future. Let's continue to champion these solutions and inspire change!
Director | Entrepreneur | Adjunct Professor
6moYour post resonates with me EdieAnn. This is a slide I showed at the 10th UK Geothermal Symposium last November. I argued that with geothermal we are dealing with a technology diffusion challenge. At the end of my presentation I pleaded for a joined-up, multi-stakeholder collaborative approach to accelerating demonstrator projects to create momentum towards the tipping point of the diffusion curve. From a Causeway Energies perspective, it's part of the reason why we're currently putting more effort into traction in the market than development of new technologies. The other part of the reason is also one of your points in your post, lack of funding for hard tech progression!