Globe 2010: German Cleantech Industry an Innovation Leader

VANCOUVER, March 22 /CNW/ - Germany's role as a leader in renewable energies is creating new opportunities for cleantech companies. From energy storage to closed loop recycling, Germany has positioned itself as a frontrunner in know-how for the industries of the future. Germany Trade & Invest will have representatives on hand from March 24 - 26 at this year's Globe 2010 in Vancouver, Canada, to discuss business opportunities in Germany.

According to a recent study by the German Energy Agency (DENA), considerable storage capacity will be necessary in the near future to fully incorporate renewable energy sources in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Already, new energy storage technologies are being developed in Germany, including battery technologies, fuel cells and hydrogen-based solutions, compressed air energy storage, along with ICT-based solutions such as smart grids and e-mobility applications. The necessity for more energy storage capacity points to significant market growth in this field.

16 percent of Germany's energy needs are already met by renewable sources. The federal government has set a target of 30 percent for the year 2020. With this increase of new energy sources, the challenge of storing and managing energy has arisen. Fluctuation in the energy supply, depending on how strong the wind blows or when the sun shines, for example, has created a need for creative solutions.

Thomas Grigoleit, Director of Renewable Energies and Resources at Germany Trade & Invest: "Germany's leadership in the cleantech industry has added to the country's reputation as a high-tech business location and leader in research and development, making it an ideal partner for R&D initiatives, pilot projects, market implementation and investment in new technologies. We are confident that Germany's leadership will continue, creating excellent business opportunities."

Key topics at this year's Globe 2010 include corporate sustainability, climate change, carbon management, clean energy, sustainable finance, and greener cities. The setting highlights the unique chance to forge new partnerships. Germany Trade & Invest will have representatives at the German Pavilion to inform investors of opportunities in Germany's cleantech industries.

Germany Trade & Invest is the foreign trade and inward investment promotion agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. The organization advises foreign companies looking to expand their business activities to the German market. It provides information on foreign trade to German companies that seek to enter foreign markets.

For further information: Germany Trade & Invest, Eva Henkel, Email: [email protected], T: [phone], F: [phone]