Clean-Tech Directory aimed at increasing investment into the region
Published on July 29, 2011
The Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of Southeast Alberta is giving certified green builders a competitive edge in the marketplace by creating a Clean-Tech Directory. Alberta, in particular has a global reputation in cold-weather construction and green building technologies. These technologies, world-wide, have and continue to evolve as a result of needs and competition. Within the Government of Alberta produced Building Products Profile, it was forecasted that the clean-tech sector in particular is expected to grow to $4.4 Billion in 2025, compared to $800 million in 2009, this presents a profitable opportunity for certified builders and companies involved in or associated to the clean-tech value chain.
Builders with certification are requested to contact the EDA with their information as well as product description to ensure that they are included on the database. Businesses offering renewable products such as: solar, wind and geothermal are also encouraged to participate. This directory will be placed on the EDA website; provided in marketing materials relating to industry; sent to other directories to ensure southeast Alberta businesses are getting maximum exposure; as well as promoted to potential investors and trade commissioners.
Tracy Heebner, Acting Director explains that, “Southeast Alberta is known to be a leader in the Clean-Tech industry. Medicine Hat was the first municipality in Alberta to offer an incentive program for clean energy, and the Hat Smart program is now in its second renewal period.”
The Clean-Tech database was a result of a Green Building Cluster Opportunity Identification Report, administered by the EDA. During interviews with various companies involved in all levels of the green building value chain it was apparent that the clean-tech industry exists and should be marketed to ensure that potential investors are aware of them. Exporting was noted as an area of opportunity.
“Proximity was also seen as advantageous in our region; access to the United States can provide opportunity for local business to expand into what the Government of Alberta estimates to be a $12 billion green construction industry,” explained Heebner.
This directory is one of many ways that the EDA is ensuring that the southeast corner of Alberta is well represented and that companies outside of the region are aware of the products and services available here. There is no cost to this service, as the EDA is a publicly funded entity working to represent the economic interests of southeast Alberta.
Submit your company details by calling Jonathan Seib, Economic Development Officer at 403-488-7015 or by email at jseib@edalliance.ca. Include: company name, email, phone, fax, mailing address, description of products and services offered as well as key contact name; please note any information that you do not want public.
To read the opportunities and challenges identified in the Green Building Cluster Opportunity Identification Report visit www.edalliance.ca it can be found in the business assistance section under studies and reports.