Cleantech is an emerging industry based on new technologies and principles of resource efficiency, biology and second-generation production concepts. Cleantech in Georgia is setting new paradigms in energy conservation through solar energy and wind energy, as well as a commitment from the state to pursue a higher standard of energy efficiency.  Georgia’s many cleantech companies, with strengths in technology for energy efficiency, wind power, energy conservation and advanced manufacturing technologies, continue to flourish. This list includes GE Energy, Johnson Controls, Landis & Gyr, Georgia Power, Suniva, Logan Energy, Siemens Energy and Automation, and many others.

Research and Development

Georgia’s cleantech strengths include the research and development of alternative energy technologies for power generation. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) established a University Center of Excellence for Photovoltaics Research and Education (UCEP) at Georgia Tech, one of only two centers in the country. The UCEP works to improve the understanding of the science and technology of advanced photovoltaic (PV) devices, to fabricate record high-efficiency solar cells, and to give the U.S. a competitive edge by providing industry guidelines for achieving cost-effective and high-efficiency PV devices.

Companies specializing in biofuels are also making headway in Georgia, taking advantage of the state’s enormous natural resources supply. A dozen biomass-to-energy projects have already been announced in Georgia, representing a combined $1.8 billion investment. Georgia’s Center of Innovation for Energy provides support for new and expanding businesses working with alternative fuels such as biodiesel, ethanol and cellulosic fuel.

Georgia’s research facilities and incubators also provide a sophisticated infrastructure and equipment to help companies looking to create innovative products and develop new and marketable technologies.  

Talent and Labor Workforce

Businesses in Georgia are fueled by skilled and knowledgeable employees. Nearly a quarter of Georgians over the age of 25 has a four-year degree or higher.   With Georgia’s projected population growth of 13.1 percent between 2010 and 2020 and another 10.8 percent between 2020 and 2030, businesses and industries will have an excellent and growing pool of skilled labor from which to choose  (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division, Interim State Population Projections, 2005).  

The state also offers new or expanding businesses an opportunity to enhance their employee training with Quick Start, a free, state workforce training program customized to a company’s exact requirements.  This program is delivered wherever and whenever needed to support a company’s business success.

Contact

To learn more about what Georgia can do to help you in the field of Cleantech, please contact Stacey Davis at 404-962-4127 or sdavis@georgia.org.

Related Sites: 

Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA)