As interest grows in solar and wind power technology development, alternative fuels and “green” buildings, some cities are encouraging investment in environmentally friendly businesses. San Francisco-based SustainLane Government recently researched the top five cities for “cleantech incubation clusters,” groups of government agencies and businesses that support research in low-emission or emission-free energy production and environmentally friendly products. According to SustainLane, abundant start-up venture capital, a network of investors, collaboration with academic or federal laboratories, active state or local participation and incentives are needed to form a cleantech incubation cluster. Based on those factors, the group identified Austin, Texas', Clean Energy Incubator program as the strongest supporter for new “green” businesses.
Top five “cleantech incubation cluster” cities
- Austin, Texas
- San Jose, Calif.
- Berkeley, Calif.
- Pasadena, Calif.
- Boston
Source: SustainLane Government, Feb. 16, 2007
