Large corporate players are beginning to show interest in early-stage clean energy companies, both through corporate investment arms and through full acquisitions. Their behaviour displays promising parallels to the early days of the biotechnology industry.

The next investment cycle will result in big returns for private and corporate investors alike in a broad range of areas related to efficiency and resources.

The solar module manufacturer has raised $18m just one month after receiving a $5m investment.

The Spanish energy conglomerate held its second annual Perseo awards last week, with three firms being honoured.

The US-based solar technology firm, which counts corporates Mitsui, Moserbaer India and Q-Cells among its backers, has raised an additional $30m.