Michael Saxton’s Cleantech Blog

Energy efficiency has emerged as the hottest sub-sector within cleantech, with a 19% share, according to data published by the Global Cleantech 100. This was followed by Solar (14%), Water & Wastewater (12%), Energy Storage (10%) and Biofuels & Biomaterials (9%). The list revealed that broader cleantech and resource efficiency solutions are becoming more important and it is not just renewable energy generation that dominates the industry.

Energy efficiency also saw the highest number of deals in 2011, with a total investment of $223 million. While solar was the most attractive in 2010, energy efficiency technologies have been steadily attracting more investment and deals in 2011. There has been a clear shift in cleantech investment strategy in 2011. Many venture capitalists for example are moving away from high-risk, capital-intensive investments in solar and are favouring technologies that are likely to generate more predictable returns such as energy efficiency projects.

So let’s have a look at a few of these energy efficiency companies that are leading the way:

Novacem produces carbon negative cement which absorbs and stores more CO₂ than it emits. The cement is based on a non-carbonate raw material and uses a low temperature production process. Novacem cement reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 850kg compared to ordinary cement.

Project Frog designs and manufacturers smart, modular buildings that are energy efficient, sustainable, fast-to-build and cost effective. These “kit-of-parts” buildings typically cut energy costs by 25% compared to conventional buildings. They use materials that provide high levels of insulation, make maximum use of natural light and conduct real time energy monitoring.

Climate Well has developed an indoor climate solution that stores thermal energy using salt and converts hot water for cooling and heating without the need for electricity. This technology can be used to heat and cool residential, commercial and industrial buildings, saving energy and reducing electricity bills. Through using Climate Well, an average family can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 15 tonnes per year.