Stimulus’ impact on energy

Nearly $100 billion was invested in a large variety of programs in the energy sector as part of the U.S. stimulus in 2009. Michael Grunwald of Time magazine has been reporting on some of them based primarily from his research for a forthcoming book on the stimulus (see below). A recent column on BigBelly’s novel trash bins was discussed earlier. This week’s Time magazine describes the progress being made in the smart grid and utilities industry.

Renewables M&A gets down to earth

KPMG has published an interesting survey of mergers and acquisitions in the renewable energy industry.  Major conclusions include:

1. Deal volume has, of course, fallen from nearly $26 billion in 2007 to a little over $18 billion in 2008 …
2. … With the billion-dollar transactions of 2008 being replaced by smaller-sized deals in the $300-500 million range and …
3. … Focused on currently operating assets in contrast to acquiring promising but undeveloped capacity
4. Investors are also using the depressed valuations to focus, consolidate, and grow positions
5. Government regulations and support drive renewable investments and, in recognition, nearly 16% of worldwide stimulus funds totaling almost $3 trillion have been allocated to “green” energy