Aviva SRI cull ‘part of wider fund management trend’
The announcement yesterday by insurer Aviva that it is to close its sustainable and responsible investment equities desk is part of a wider realignment of the fund management industry, and does not reflect on the health of the SRI market, according to the head of UKSIF. More >>>
Spain’s renewables subsidy cut to benefit green utilities
The decision by Spain’s government to suspend its renewable energy subsidy scheme will add to pressure on developers and equipment manufacturers, but is likely to be a positive for the country’s clean energy generators, according to analysts. More >>>
The chilling effect of Dodd-Frank
US environmental and renewable energy credit markets are anxiously awaiting a crucial CFTC ruling. Felicity Carus reports
Commission report builds case for tougher emissions targets
Business and environmental lobby groups have responded to a Commission working paper on emission targets by urging the adoption of more ambitious climate goals and limiting the supply of Emissions Trading System allowances. More >>>
Green fillip needed as we enter ‘age of bonds’
We are entering “the age of bonds” as a result of current financial crisis, Sean Kidney, CEO of the Climate Bonds Initiative, told the World Economic Forum in Davos last Thursday. More >>>
Renewables M&A deals up 40% in 2011 – PwC
Mergers and acquisition deals in the renewables market rose 40% last year, “driven by industry shake-out”, says consultancy PwC. More >>>
UK invests £110m in IFC climate funds
The UK government has invested £110 million ($157 million) into two new commercial funds, aiming to leverage in at least £3 billion of private capital for green investments in developing countries. More >>>
Charting new waters
US water infrastructure is crumbling, inefficient and unsustainable. But it also offers enormous opportunities for far-sighted investors, says Sharlene Leurig
ADB places second water bond
The Asian Development Bank has raised $265 million from Japanese investors into its second water bond. More >>>
US solar tariffs would hammer sector, economy
The imposition of tariffs on Chinese solar imports by the US would have a “devastating” effect on the sector and the overall economy, which could be worsened if the Chinese retaliate, according to a new report. More >>>
Expiring tax credit threatens US wind expansion
The US Congress should extend the production tax credit for wind before the end of the first quarter of 2012 to keep the industry growing at its current robust rate, according to the American Wind Energy Association. More >>>