As interest grows in developing solar and wind power technology, alternative fuels and “green” buildings, some cities are doing more than others to encourage investment in environmentally friendly businesses. San Francisco-based SustainLane Government recently researched the top five cities for “Cleantech incubation clusters,” where the public and private sectors are supporting 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, and active state or local participation and incentives are needed to form a cleantech incubation cluster. Based on those factors, the group identified Austin, Texas, as the strongest supporter for new businesses through its Clean Energy Incubator program. San Jose, Berkeley and Pasadena — all in California — and Boston also topped the list.