Policy, investment and markets Features for January 2010

Policy, investment and markets Features Archive

Comment: Banking on Europe's offshore wind industry Comment: Banking on Europe's offshore wind industry

The offshore wind industry has already garnered government support and is increasingly piquing the interest of the private sector thanks to its ability to contribute significantly to the European renewable energy targets of 2020. As installed capacity continues to grow, and market share increases, the banking sector will continue to become progressively more involved in this industry.

Transition to a commercial fuel cell vehicle market in California Transition to a commercial fuel cell vehicle market in California

For a decade, the members of the California Fuel Cell Partnership have been working together to successfully navigate the early stages of fuel cell vehicle and hydrogen station deployments. As of June 2009, CaFCP members have placed more than 300 fuel cell passenger vehicles and transit buses, and 26 hydrogen stations, into California communities.

Austin Energy looks to renewable energy Austin Energy looks to renewable energy

There are many potential challenges for utilities that look to integrate a larger share of renewable power into their generation mix. But none is more significant than whether a utility has the strategic will. Don C. Smith spoke with Roger Duncan, General Manager of Austin Energy about why it is undertaking an aggressive increase in the percentage of renewable energy in its generating portfolio.

Comment: how do we get to a sustainable future? Comment: how do we get to a sustainable future?

In terms of carbon emissions, how do we get deliver solutions to our climate and energy challenges? For those who simply wish to get there quickly, it may look easy in terms of technology. However, Miguel Mendonça of the World Future Council is convinced that getting there requires more agreement, more collaboration and more action.

Technology start ups: what are the legal challenges? Technology start ups: what are the legal challenges?

Companies in the energy sector, ranging from oil majors to start-ups, have long been looking for clean, sustainable sources of energy. In this sector, a start-up can face particular challenges in its quest to develop the “next big thing”. Even if it succeeds, a long road awaits. Connie Carnabuci, Stuart Grider, and Chester Toh chart the legal course of a small renewable energy start-up.