The US has a number of clean energy companies, the only problem is they focus their efforts overseas, taking with them jobs, investment, and renewable energy opportunities here at home. Foreign government policies in countries like China and France are driving this migration of clean energy companies and skilled labor overseas.
The US’s competitive position is at risk in the emerging global clean and renewable energy economy. According to Bloomberg new Energy Finance, global renewable energy investment is expected to reach $200 billion by the end of 2010, representing a 25% increase over 2009. In 2009, China overtook the United States in renewable energy investments due to a relentless push in solar, clean water, and especially wind technology. Of the G20 Nations, the US ranks 11th in terms of percentage of GDP invested in clean energy products.