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Growth Rate in Three Sectors "Blistering" Says New Report

Despite growing economic uncertainty during 2008, three major clean-energy sectors kept up a "blistering" growth rate, according to the Clean Energy Trends 2009 report released today by Clean Edge, Inc.

Solar photovoltaics, wind power, and biofuels revenues increased 53 percent, from $75.8 billion in 2007 to $115.9 billion in revenues in 2008, the report says. By 2018, Clean Edge predicts that these three sectors will have revenues of $325.1 billion.

Clean Edge forecasts strong growth over the mid- to long-term, even though severe credit constraints have slowed plans for new manufacturing facilities and development projects.

"While 2009 will be a difficult year, we believe that clean energy will play a central role in any global economic recovery," said Clean Edge co-founder and managing director Ron Pernick during a press briefing this morning.

The report outlines five trends poised to make an impact on the markets in the coming year.

  1. The smart grid goes online
  2. Energy storage becomes a key issue for utilities
  3. New clean-energy markets emerge around the world
  4. Grid transmission capacity makes headlines
  5. Micropower grids experience growth

Clean Edge publishes sponsored research reports and produces the annual IBF Clean-Tech Investor Summit.

The report is available for download here.