The world is changing. People, businesses, and governments are investing more money into clean and green innovation than ever before. From electric vehicles to solar power, new ideas are getting the cash they need to grow fast. In this article, we will go deep into 30 sectors leading the way. Each section is based on a real stat and breaks down what’s happening, why it matters, and how businesses like yours can ride the wave.
1. Renewable energy attracted over $495 billion in global investment in 2022
The Big Picture
Renewable energy has become the front-runner in the global race to cut emissions. With nearly half a trillion dollars flowing into this space in 2022, it’s clear this sector is not just a trend — it’s the future. Investors are focusing heavily on clean energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and biomass.
This growth is being driven by falling costs, policy support, and rising demand for clean alternatives to fossil fuels. Countries are under pressure to meet climate targets, and renewable energy is the easiest starting point. Technologies have matured, and now it’s about scale.
What It Means for You
If you are in the energy space, pivoting toward renewable solutions isn’t just a moral decision — it’s a business opportunity. Even if you’re not, this stat shows where government grants, tax incentives, and global venture capital are heading.
If you are a startup, look into microgrids, residential solar kits, and solar-as-a-service business models. These areas are growing in urban and rural markets alike.
Manufacturers can explore B2B deals with large solar and wind farms to supply parts or help with installation. If you’re in real estate, look into adding solar or geothermal heating to boost property value and appeal.
Action Steps
- Research funding programs in your country for renewable tech.
- Partner with green construction firms for new solar and wind projects.
- Offer energy audits to businesses and upsell renewable packages.
- Develop educational content to teach customers about ROI from renewables.
2. Solar PV accounted for $308 billion of renewable energy investment in 2022
Solar Is No Longer Optional
Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is the single biggest recipient of clean energy investment. More than $300 billion went into solar in 2022 alone. Why? It’s low-cost, easy to deploy, and works in almost any climate.
Whether it’s large-scale solar farms or rooftop panels for homes and offices, solar is everywhere. The technology has improved a lot — panels are more efficient and cheaper to produce. It’s now often cheaper than coal or gas in many countries.
How to Take Advantage
If you’re in tech, consider building apps or dashboards that help users track their solar energy usage and savings. If you’re in hardware, explore creating storage solutions or smart inverters.
Even if your business is unrelated, switching to solar can cut your operating costs and brand you as environmentally conscious.
There’s also room to launch niche products like foldable panels for campers, solar charging stations for electric bikes, or kits for schools.
Action Steps
- Look for niche solar markets — schools, tiny homes, events.
- Bundle solar products with services like smart home installations.
- Pitch solar energy as part of ESG compliance for corporates.
- Offer performance-based solar contracts — get paid from the savings.
3. The electric vehicles (EV) sector saw global investment exceed $466 billion in 2022
EVs Are Going Mainstream
Electric vehicles are more than just cars now. They include two-wheelers, buses, trucks, and even boats. Over $466 billion went into EVs in 2022, and this shows the appetite is strong across all continents.
Battery prices have dropped significantly, making EVs more affordable. Charging infrastructure is expanding fast. Consumers are also getting more options, from budget EVs to luxury electric SUVs.
Where the Opportunities Lie
The EV wave is about more than selling cars. It includes software for fleet management, battery recycling, mobile charging solutions, and even subscription-based vehicle services.
Service providers can develop fast-charging stations or build mobile apps for EV route planning. Logistics firms can transition to electric trucks and claim carbon credits. Auto repair shops can pivot to EV servicing.
Battery recycling and repurposing is another big field. Used EV batteries can be reused for home energy storage.
Action Steps
- Partner with carmakers or dealerships to offer value-added EV services.
- Create a mobile EV charging unit for events or remote areas.
- Launch a local EV community and monetize with events, tips, and products.
- Explore battery second-life programs for energy storage.
4. Green buildings represented approximately $260 billion in investments globally in 2022
Building the Future, Sustainably
Green buildings are designed to use less energy, water, and materials. They create healthier living and working spaces and reduce a property’s carbon footprint. With $260 billion invested in green buildings in 2022, this space is booming.
The rise is driven by government codes, buyer preferences, and long-term savings. More people are willing to pay extra for homes and offices that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
How You Can Get Involved
If you’re in construction, look into using sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled steel. Interior designers can focus on layouts that improve airflow and natural lighting.
Real estate companies can market buildings based on energy efficiency, air quality, and water use. Tech startups can build smart systems that monitor and optimize energy consumption in buildings.
This also applies to retrofitting. Older buildings can be upgraded with better insulation, windows, and HVAC systems to meet green standards.
Action Steps
- Learn your local green building codes and pitch services around them.
- Help older buildings go green through cost-effective retrofitting.
- Offer a “green rating” service for real estate agents and buyers.
- Build a network of suppliers who offer green-certified materials.
5. Wind energy investment reached $174 billion in 2022
Harnessing the Wind
Wind energy, both onshore and offshore, is one of the fastest-growing renewable sectors. With $174 billion invested in 2022, it’s clear that wind has gone from niche to mainstream.
Turbines are now bigger and more efficient. Offshore wind is especially booming in Europe and parts of Asia. This technology produces large-scale power without emitting any carbon.
A Sector Full of Spin-Offs
Opportunities go beyond wind farms. They include drone inspection services for turbines, software for predictive maintenance, and logistics for transporting massive turbine parts.
Small players can tap into local wind projects or offer services to wind farm operators. You don’t need to build turbines — just supporting them is a major business in itself.
If you have engineering skills, design turbine components that are lighter or easier to install. If you’re in software, build platforms that optimize wind energy integration into the grid.
Action Steps
- Create a drone service for wind turbine maintenance inspections.
- Supply parts or offer repair services to local wind operators.
- Develop software that predicts downtime based on sensor data.
- Pitch wind energy to industrial clients looking to reduce energy costs.
6. Energy storage investments surpassed $26 billion globally in 2022
Power When You Need It
One of the biggest challenges with renewable energy is consistency. The sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. That’s where energy storage comes in. With over $26 billion invested in 2022, this sector is becoming the unsung hero of the clean energy revolution.
Battery technologies, particularly lithium-ion, are at the center of this growth. But other forms like pumped hydro, compressed air, and even thermal storage are gaining ground.
The goal is to store excess energy and use it when needed — day or night, rain or shine.
What You Can Do in This Space
There’s a lot more to energy storage than just making batteries. Think software that controls when to store or release power, installation services for battery systems in homes, or even portable energy storage units for off-grid locations.
You can develop plug-and-play battery packs for RVs and boats or smart controllers that automatically switch energy sources. Even creating financing plans for battery storage systems could be a powerful business model.
Schools, hospitals, and data centers are all looking for reliable backup power. This is your chance to provide solutions that help them stay online no matter what.
Action Steps
- Build partnerships with solar installers to add storage upsells.
- Launch a line of portable battery storage for campers and remote workers.
- Create training programs for battery installation technicians.
- Develop software that manages power flow between solar, grid, and storage.
7. Hydrogen technologies received over $8 billion in private investments in 2022
The Promise of Green Hydrogen
Hydrogen is lightweight, energy-rich, and emits only water when burned. While it’s been around for a while, green hydrogen — made using renewable energy — is now gaining serious traction.
$8 billion in private funding poured into this space in 2022. That’s a strong signal from investors that hydrogen might play a key role in decarbonizing sectors where batteries fall short — like steel, shipping, and aviation.
Where You Can Fit In
This field is still young, which means there’s room for new players. Startups can focus on hydrogen fuel cell components, distribution systems, or even safety solutions for storage and transport.
Engineering firms can begin offering feasibility studies for hydrogen plants. Logistics companies can explore hydrogen-powered trucks. Universities and labs may need partnerships to take prototypes to market.
If you’re a service provider, build educational content or consulting packages for companies curious about switching to hydrogen-based processes.
Action Steps
- Offer R&D support or materials for hydrogen fuel cell development.
- Build partnerships with academic institutions working on hydrogen tech.
- Create safety compliance tools or checklists for hydrogen handling.
- Explore hydrogen vehicle maintenance and infrastructure services.
8. Circular economy initiatives garnered over $80 billion in funding globally in 2022
Rethink, Reduce, Reuse
The circular economy flips the traditional “take, make, dispose” model. Instead of creating waste, products are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled. With $80 billion invested globally in 2022, this movement is not just ethical — it’s profitable.
Circular systems reduce the need for raw materials and cut emissions. They also unlock new revenue through reuse, resale, and remanufacturing.
Whether it’s fashion, electronics, or food — every industry can rethink how resources flow.
Getting Involved
If you’re in retail, build a resale platform for used goods. If you manufacture products, explore designing with recycled materials or offer a take-back program. Startups can develop systems that help companies track product lifecycles and material recovery.
Even service providers can get creative — offer workshops on zero-waste offices or consult on circular packaging solutions.
Digital tools can also power the circular economy. Blockchain can help trace product origins, and AI can optimize material flows.
Action Steps
- Build a resale or repair marketplace within your niche.
- Help brands track sustainability metrics using smart tools.
- Launch consulting for circular supply chains and closed-loop systems.
- Offer co-branded recycling or upcycling programs with local partners.
9. Climate tech startups raised over $70 billion in venture funding in 2022
Innovation Meets Urgency
The climate crisis is not a future problem — it’s here. That urgency is why climate tech startups raised a staggering $70 billion in 2022 alone. This covers everything from carbon tracking to food tech, green finance, and beyond.
Investors are looking for scalable solutions to real-world environmental problems. Startups that can prove their impact and show a path to profitability are winning big.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’ve got an idea, now is the time to build. The startup ecosystem is hot for climate innovation. Whether it’s an app that tracks carbon footprint, a new composting technology, or AI that predicts wildfires — there’s funding out there.
You don’t even need to be a tech wizard. Surround yourself with people who are. Focus on solving a niche problem really well.
Accelerators, grant programs, and angel investors are ready to back smart, mission-driven founders.
Action Steps
- Apply to climate-focused accelerators like Elemental Excelerator or Third Derivative.
- Validate a niche idea using small pilots and measurable impact metrics.
- Build partnerships with climate NGOs or city governments for early traction.
- Focus on MVPs that show real environmental ROI, not just buzzwords.
10. EV battery production capacity investments surpassed $120 billion globally in 2022
The Battery Arms Race
EVs can’t exist without batteries — and building those batteries is big business. Over $120 billion was invested globally in expanding EV battery production capacity in 2022.
Countries are racing to build local supply chains to avoid overdependence on other regions. That means new factories, mining operations, and recycling plants are popping up around the world.
The focus is not just on quantity, but on safety, longevity, and sustainability.
What It Means for Entrepreneurs
Whether it’s raw materials, production, software, or recycling — there’s a place to play. You can supply battery-grade lithium, build diagnostic tools for cell health, or develop fire suppression systems for battery facilities.
Recycling is also key. As more batteries age out, companies that can safely break them down and recover valuable materials will be in demand.
If you’re a data expert, design predictive maintenance systems for EV batteries. If you’re into logistics, optimize the battery distribution network.
Action Steps
- Offer tools for battery lifecycle monitoring and performance analytics.
- Create safety tech or services tailored for battery production plants.
- Build platforms to match supply/demand for battery minerals like nickel or cobalt.
- Develop second-life applications for EV batteries — home storage, backup power, etc.
11. ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) funds globally surpassed $8.4 trillion in AUM by end of 2022
Investing With a Conscience
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is no longer a niche. By the end of 2022, ESG funds globally held over $8.4 trillion in assets under management. These funds prioritize businesses that care about the planet, people, and good corporate practices.
Companies that perform well on ESG metrics are now more attractive to investors, regulators, and consumers alike. And this shift is driving major corporate changes across nearly every sector.
Your Path to ESG Alignment
If you run a business, aligning with ESG values isn’t optional anymore — it’s a competitive advantage. Investors are putting money into firms that actively reduce their emissions, improve diversity, or show transparency in leadership.
Start by calculating your carbon footprint. Then look at your labor practices, supply chain ethics, and how inclusive your leadership is. ESG is about measuring progress, not perfection.
Small businesses can stand out by showing clear values and a willingness to improve. Even a simple sustainability report can build trust with customers and funders.
Action Steps
- Publish an annual impact or sustainability report, even if it’s one page.
- Use ESG tools to track and report on carbon, diversity, and ethics.
- Apply for ESG ratings from trusted agencies and include them in your marketing.
- Offer ESG compliance consulting to other small and mid-sized businesses.
12. The carbon capture and storage (CCS) sector received over $4 billion in project investments in 2022
Trapping Carbon Before It Escapes
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a set of technologies that trap carbon dioxide emissions before they enter the atmosphere. It’s especially useful for industries like cement, steel, and chemicals — where emissions are hard to eliminate.
In 2022, CCS projects attracted over $4 billion in investment. That shows strong confidence in this technology’s ability to help hit net-zero targets.
Turning Emissions Into Business Models
You don’t need to build a carbon capture plant to get involved. You can offer sensors for measuring CO2 levels, software for monitoring emissions, or services that verify reductions.
There’s also room in public education — helping companies and communities understand how CCS works and why it matters. If you’re in construction or industrial services, offer retrofitting solutions for factories and plants.
CCS may also tie into carbon credit markets. Companies that capture and store carbon can trade that action as a financial asset.
Action Steps
- Offer emissions auditing and data reporting as a service.
- Create tools that make carbon capture technology easier to monitor and manage.
- Connect captured CO2 users (e.g., beverage companies) with CCS providers.
- Educate high-emission industries about retrofit options and incentives.
13. Smart grid technologies saw $18 billion in global investment in 2022
Smarter Energy, Better Control
Smart grids use digital technology to better manage electricity flow — balancing demand, reducing waste, and preventing outages. In 2022, this sector pulled in $18 billion in investment.
As renewable energy sources become more common, smart grids help integrate them without disrupting the energy supply. Think of it like giving the power grid a brain.
These systems also give consumers more control over how and when they use energy, which means savings and efficiency.
Where You Fit Into the Grid
Software developers can create demand response apps, energy-tracking dashboards, or tools that alert users to peak rates. Hardware providers can build smart meters, inverters, or sensors for home and business use.
If you’re in consulting, work with utility companies to improve their digital infrastructure. Even education providers can build smart grid literacy programs for school and corporate training.
Smart grid tech touches almost every type of user, from homeowners to city planners — making it one of the most versatile green sectors to enter.
Action Steps
- Create a mobile app that helps users manage energy usage in real time.
- Develop smart sensors for appliances to optimize energy during off-peak hours.
- Partner with utilities to pilot demand response programs for neighborhoods.
- Educate commercial building managers on how to benefit from time-of-use pricing.
14. Agri-tech and sustainable agriculture investment reached over $22 billion in 2022
Farming With the Future in Mind
Farming is essential — but traditional agriculture also contributes heavily to emissions and water usage. Agri-tech offers solutions like precision irrigation, vertical farming, and soil monitoring to make food production more sustainable.
With over $22 billion in investment in 2022, the industry is shifting toward tech-enabled, climate-smart agriculture.
This sector isn’t just about saving the planet — it’s also about feeding a growing population with fewer resources.
Growing Opportunities
Startups in this space can build tools for farmers to track soil health, manage irrigation, or reduce fertilizer use. Drone services for crop monitoring are gaining traction too.
Retailers and brands can source from regenerative farms and highlight that in their branding. If you’re in logistics, focus on cutting food waste through better cold chains or tracking tech.
Education is huge here — from farmer training to urban gardening kits for cities.
Action Steps
- Build platforms that help farmers track yield and optimize input usage.
- Offer smart greenhouses or vertical farming kits for restaurants or schools.
- Develop AI tools that detect pest infestations early via image recognition.
- Work with local farmers to brand and sell their eco-friendly produce online.
15. Waste-to-energy investment reached over $9 billion globally in 2022
Turning Trash Into Power
Landfills are a problem — they leak harmful gases and waste valuable materials. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technology tackles this by converting waste into usable heat, electricity, or fuel.
In 2022, over $9 billion went into this space, showing that waste isn’t just a problem — it’s an opportunity.
These systems are especially useful in cities where land is limited and trash disposal is expensive. It also reduces methane emissions, which are a big driver of climate change.
Building Businesses From Waste
Startups can explore small-scale WTE systems for hotels, hospitals, or campuses. Others might focus on converting used cooking oil or food waste into biofuels.
If you’re in logistics, offer waste collection services that integrate with WTE plants. Engineers and designers can work on modular systems for communities or developing regions.
This sector is also ripe for public-private partnerships — helping cities reduce landfill usage and meet climate goals.
Action Steps
- Build compact WTE systems for rural hospitals or disaster relief zones.
- Develop fuel from local food waste and offer it to nearby transport fleets.
- Partner with municipal governments to design localized WTE programs.
- Create education campaigns to increase waste separation at the source.
16. Green transportation infrastructure received over $100 billion in global investment in 2022
Building Roads to a Cleaner Future
Electric vehicles may get the spotlight, but they can’t operate without the right infrastructure. That’s where green transportation systems come in — everything from EV charging stations to bike lanes, electric bus routes, and urban mobility tech.
Over $100 billion was invested in these systems in 2022. This includes smart traffic systems, charging corridors, and low-emission public transport upgrades. Cities and countries are preparing for a cleaner future where mobility is both efficient and sustainable.
Where You Can Add Value
You don’t need to build highways to get involved. Start small. If you’re in tech, build apps that help people locate the nearest EV charger. If you’re a contractor, explore installing home or commercial charging stations.
Even marketing agencies can ride this wave — by promoting green travel options for tourism, events, or real estate. Logistics companies can focus on route optimization to reduce emissions.
If you’re in construction or architecture, work on bike-friendly urban designs or electrified bus depots.
Action Steps
- Start an EV charging installation service targeting small businesses or landlords.
- Build route-planning software that integrates EV range, chargers, and traffic.
- Work with local governments to launch public campaigns on green transit.
- Partner with commercial buildings to offer EV charging as an amenity.
17. Offshore wind represented over $50 billion in investment in 2022
Energy From the Sea
Offshore wind farms — large turbines planted in oceans — are exploding in popularity. With stronger and more consistent wind speeds offshore, these projects generate a huge amount of clean electricity.
In 2022, more than $50 billion was invested in offshore wind alone. Europe leads the way, but other regions are catching up fast. These farms are crucial to national energy plans and help reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
What You Can Do
Offshore wind needs a lot of support: specialized ships, cable laying, underwater inspections, maintenance software, and environmental assessments.
If you’re in maritime services, explore how your operations can support offshore logistics. If you’re in AI or data science, work on predictive tools that reduce downtime or forecast weather impacts.
You can also enter indirectly — by training technicians, creating turbine part supply chains, or offering safety systems.
Action Steps
- Develop marine logistics software or fleet management tools.
- Create online training modules for offshore wind farm workers.
- Offer environmental impact monitoring or drone inspection services.
- Connect wind project developers with suppliers through a marketplace model.
18. Bioenergy and biofuels investments crossed $25 billion globally in 2022
Fuels Made From Life
Bioenergy uses organic materials like crops, waste, and algae to create fuel and electricity. It’s an alternative to fossil fuels — but one that’s renewable and often uses by-products that would otherwise go to waste.
In 2022, over $25 billion was invested into bioenergy and biofuels. This includes biodiesel, bioethanol, and biogas for cooking, heating, or transport. The appeal? It’s scalable and can often be produced locally.
Areas to Explore
If you’re in agriculture, consider growing or supplying feedstock like sugarcane, algae, or used cooking oil. If you’re in logistics or food service, you can turn waste into a fuel source.
Tech startups can work on fermentation technologies, fuel-blending software, or emissions reduction tools. NGOs and educators can help rural communities switch from wood-burning to cleaner biogas.
Even restaurants and cafes can get involved by donating waste oil or food scraps.
Action Steps
- Partner with restaurants to collect and convert used oil into biodiesel.
- Work with farms to create small-scale biogas units for local use.
- Develop blockchain systems to track feedstock supply and sustainability.
- Offer consulting on blending biofuels into industrial heating or transport systems.
19. Sustainable water technologies investment was estimated at $16 billion in 2022
Every Drop Counts
Clean water is becoming scarcer — and climate change makes it worse. That’s why sustainable water technologies pulled in around $16 billion in 2022. This includes smart irrigation, water recycling, desalination, and leak detection systems.
As industries and cities try to reduce water waste, demand is growing for tech that makes water use more efficient and sustainable.
Flow Into This Sector
If you’re a tech founder, create IoT tools that detect leaks in buildings. If you’re in agriculture, consider building smart irrigation tools that track soil moisture and adjust watering.
Startups can also build platforms that gamify water conservation or provide real-time data to urban planners. Commercial buildings and factories are ideal customers for water reuse and recycling systems.
And don’t forget the service angle — installation, monitoring, and maintenance of these systems are all growing markets.
Action Steps
- Build mobile apps for homeowners to track daily water use and suggest savings.
- Offer greywater recycling systems for commercial kitchens or car washes.
- Partner with municipalities for smart meter rollouts and analytics tools.
- Educate farmers on using satellite data and soil sensors for water optimization.
20. Climate-focused fintech and carbon accounting startups raised over $2 billion in 2022
Tracking the Footprint
Businesses around the world are under pressure to report and reduce their carbon footprints. That’s why carbon accounting and climate fintech tools raised over $2 billion in 2022. These tools help track emissions, trade carbon credits, and fund climate action.
More companies now see climate reporting as essential — not just for compliance, but for winning customers and investors.
Fintech With a Mission
If you’re good with numbers and software, this sector is perfect. Build platforms that automate carbon tracking for small businesses. Create APIs for carbon offset marketplaces. Offer easy-to-use dashboards that visualize sustainability metrics.
You can also create payment tools where a percentage of every transaction funds green projects. Think of climate impact as a feature — not just a report.
Even banks and investment firms are looking for ways to screen companies based on climate risk.
Action Steps
- Develop simple plug-ins that track emissions from ecommerce platforms.
- Build integrations with accounting software to automate ESG reports.
- Launch a fintech product where users can invest in climate-positive portfolios.
- Partner with verified carbon credit platforms to create automated offset tools.
21. Low-carbon industrial process technologies drew over $10 billion in funding in 2022
Cleaning Up the Backbone of the Economy
Industries like cement, steel, chemicals, and mining are essential — but also heavy polluters. That’s changing. In 2022, over $10 billion went into low-carbon technologies that reduce emissions during industrial processes.
From electric furnaces to carbon-neutral cement, innovation is making it possible to maintain production while slashing pollution. For many sectors, these upgrades are becoming a requirement to stay competitive.
Where You Can Enter the Space
If you’re an engineer, think about ways to reduce heat loss, increase efficiency, or switch fuels in heavy industry. If you’re a software developer, build monitoring systems for factories to track emissions in real time.
Consultants can offer carbon benchmarking, roadmap planning, or certifications. Logistics firms can help optimize supply chains to reduce indirect emissions.
Even material innovators have a place — from recycled input materials to low-energy production substitutes.
Action Steps
- Develop control systems that help factories optimize power use.
- Create carbon footprint calculators for industrial manufacturers.
- Offer energy audit services to mid-sized factories aiming to decarbonize.
- Build relationships with suppliers of low-emission materials or tools.
22. Building energy efficiency tech investments totaled over $45 billion in 2022
Making Buildings Smarter and Cheaper to Run
Buildings — homes, offices, factories — consume a massive portion of global energy. But much of that energy goes to waste. That’s why energy efficiency tech attracted over $45 billion in 2022.
This includes things like insulation, smart thermostats, lighting systems, HVAC optimization, and energy-efficient appliances. It’s about doing more with less.
Energy efficiency is often the lowest-cost, highest-impact way to cut carbon.
Opportunities for Everyone
Contractors can specialize in retrofits that include double-glazed windows, LED upgrades, or smart systems. Product developers can focus on gadgets that help control energy usage remotely.
If you’re in finance, offer green lending for energy-efficient upgrades. If you’re in sales, promote energy efficiency as a key selling point — customers are paying attention.
Even interior designers can influence energy use by choosing materials that reflect light or retain heat.
Action Steps
- Offer bundled home upgrades — insulation, LED lighting, and smart thermostats.
- Build energy dashboards for commercial tenants to monitor and reduce use.
- Create financing packages that help building owners fund efficiency retrofits.
- Work with landlords to improve energy ratings and attract green-minded tenants.
23. The green hydrogen electrolyzer market alone is projected to surpass $23 billion by 2030
Splitting Water, Powering the Future
Green hydrogen is made by using clean electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The tool that makes this happen is an electrolyzer — and demand for them is exploding.
While the market stood much smaller in 2022, projections show that green hydrogen electrolyzers will be worth over $23 billion by 2030. It’s a clear sign this sector is on a strong growth path.
Why It’s a Big Deal
Unlike gray hydrogen (made with fossil fuels), green hydrogen is fully renewable. It can power trucks, heat factories, and even store energy. Countries are betting big on hydrogen to decarbonize sectors batteries can’t reach.
Companies that can make, install, or maintain electrolyzers — or even just support them — will see major opportunities.
Action Steps
- Build modular electrolyzer units for off-grid use or local industries.
- Create systems that connect hydrogen plants with solar or wind farms.
- Develop training for technicians on electrolyzer safety and servicing.
- Launch component manufacturing services — membranes, catalysts, or frames.
24. Renewable energy storage installations grew by 80% YoY in 2022
The Backup Boom
Storing renewable energy is just as important as generating it. As more solar and wind projects come online, storage is growing even faster. In 2022 alone, installations of renewable energy storage rose by 80% year-over-year.
That means more homes, businesses, and utilities are adding batteries and other systems to keep clean energy available anytime.
This trend makes renewable energy more reliable, and in many cases, more profitable.
How You Can Participate
If you’re an installer, offer turnkey packages that include generation and storage. Tech companies can build apps that help customers manage their energy flow — charging batteries during cheap times and using them when rates spike.
There’s also opportunity in analytics. Use data to forecast energy needs, battery wear, or savings potential. And don’t forget customer service — people need help understanding how to maximize their battery’s value.
Action Steps
- Create a training program for solar installers to upsell battery systems.
- Offer a subscription-based storage monitoring and maintenance service.
- Partner with energy providers to roll out behind-the-meter storage options.
- Build an online calculator to help homeowners see storage ROI before buying.
25. Clean cooking technologies received over $130 million in private investment in 2022
Cooking Without the Carbon
In many parts of the world, people still cook using open flames or charcoal. This contributes to deforestation, air pollution, and health issues — especially for women and children. Clean cooking technologies offer safer, cleaner alternatives.
In 2022, private investors put over $130 million into this space. It’s not a huge number compared to other sectors, but it’s critically important for health, gender equity, and climate action.
A High-Impact Opportunity
Entrepreneurs can develop solar cookers, biogas stoves, or electric induction units powered by off-grid systems. NGOs and social enterprises can support distribution, training, and behavior change in rural communities.
Product designers can work on stoves that are both efficient and affordable. Even mobile payment integration is a game-changer — letting families pay for clean fuel in small installments.
The clean cooking market offers a unique mix of climate, health, and development impact.
Action Steps
- Design modular, efficient stoves for low-income and rural households.
- Build pay-as-you-go systems using mobile wallets or local agents.
- Partner with aid groups to distribute and maintain stoves at scale.
- Educate local leaders to promote clean cooking benefits through community programs.
26. The carbon credit market crossed $2 billion in transactions in voluntary markets in 2022
Trading Emissions Like Currency
Carbon credits let companies offset their emissions by funding activities that reduce or remove carbon from the atmosphere — like planting trees or capturing methane. In 2022, the voluntary carbon market saw over $2 billion in trades.
This is a clear sign that companies are increasingly willing to pay for ways to reduce their climate impact, even when they’re not required to by law.
Opportunities in the Carbon Economy
If you’re a tech entrepreneur, build platforms that make carbon offsetting simple and transparent. If you’re in forestry or agriculture, turn land stewardship into a revenue stream by generating credits.
Auditors and verifiers are also in demand — businesses need to prove their offsets are real. Education is another key space: help small businesses understand how carbon markets work.
This is a fast-moving sector with evolving standards, so services that help buyers navigate it are highly valuable.
Action Steps
- Build a marketplace for verified, traceable carbon credits using blockchain.
- Develop tools that help businesses measure emissions and match with offset projects.
- Offer verification and certification services in line with global standards.
- Partner with landowners to create carbon-positive farming or forestry projects.
27. Climate resilience infrastructure projects attracted over $18 billion in global investments in 2022
Adapting to a Changing World
As climate disasters grow more frequent and severe, resilience is now as important as prevention. Climate-resilient infrastructure includes flood-resistant roads, fireproof buildings, drought-proof agriculture, and stormwater systems.
In 2022, over $18 billion went into such projects. Governments, businesses, and communities are preparing for a future that’s already here.
Building Resilience Into the Business Model
Engineers, architects, and construction firms can take the lead by designing with climate risk in mind. Tech firms can build flood prediction tools, emergency communication systems, or resilience planning software.
Insurance companies can develop new products around climate risk. NGOs can partner with governments to upgrade infrastructure in vulnerable areas. Even education and training providers can step in to build climate literacy.
Action Steps
- Design climate-resilient homes and buildings for flood or fire zones.
- Offer simulation tools to test infrastructure against future climate models.
- Build early warning systems and evacuation tools for vulnerable communities.
- Work with municipalities to assess weak points in local infrastructure.
28. Energy-efficient appliances saw $15 billion in investment in 2022
Smarter Machines, Smaller Bills
Appliances may seem small in the big climate picture, but they use a surprising amount of energy. That’s why energy-efficient appliances attracted $15 billion in investment in 2022.
From refrigerators and washing machines to air conditioners and water heaters, efficiency upgrades are cutting household and business electricity bills while lowering emissions.
How You Can Plug In
Hardware developers can innovate quieter, cooler, and smarter appliances. Software companies can create companion apps for usage tracking or maintenance alerts. Retailers can build marketplaces focused solely on energy-efficient products.
Even service providers can benefit by offering energy audits that recommend appliance upgrades. There’s also opportunity in creating financing options to help customers afford these often more expensive — but money-saving — machines.
Action Steps
- Develop smart plugs or home hubs that monitor appliance usage.
- Create a certification system for energy-efficient appliances in emerging markets.
- Work with utility companies to offer rebate programs for efficient upgrades.
- Launch an e-commerce store focused solely on green appliances.
29. Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) received $2.1 billion in funding in 2022
Flying Cleaner, Not Less
Air travel is a big emitter, but also essential. The aviation industry is working hard to clean up its act, and sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) are leading the charge. These fuels can reduce emissions by up to 80% and are compatible with existing planes.
In 2022, over $2.1 billion went into SAFs — a sign that airlines and fuel producers are scaling up.
How to Get Involved
SAF isn’t just about fuel production. Opportunities exist in feedstock sourcing (like waste oils and agricultural residues), fuel certification, logistics, and blending infrastructure.
Data analytics firms can track lifecycle emissions. Logistics companies can optimize SAF delivery. Even travel agencies can build “green flight” options for conscious travelers.
Startups can also help smaller airports develop on-site SAF blending or refueling capabilities.
Action Steps
- Create software to certify and trace SAF supply chains.
- Partner with airports to upgrade infrastructure for sustainable fuels.
- Develop business models that convert local waste into aviation-grade biofuels.
- Offer green flight comparison tools for travel platforms and agencies.
30. The global market for environmental monitoring technologies reached $19 billion in 2022
Knowing Is Half the Battle
Environmental monitoring helps us track air quality, water contamination, noise levels, soil conditions, and more. With $19 billion in global market size by 2022, this space is booming — especially with the rise of smart cities and ESG compliance.
Governments, companies, and even schools are investing in ways to better understand the world around them.
Turning Data Into Impact
Tech companies can build portable air monitors, water quality sensors, or dashboards that visualize environmental data. Educators can use this data for student engagement. NGOs can use monitoring tools to support their campaigns.
Even property developers or landlords can use monitoring tech to raise the value and health credentials of their buildings.
There’s also demand for platforms that combine multiple streams of environmental data — from satellites to street-level sensors — for better planning and compliance.
Action Steps
- Build plug-and-play air quality sensors for offices or homes.
- Develop APIs that combine satellite and ground-level pollution data.
- Offer environmental impact reports for real estate developments.
- Create mobile apps that alert users to changes in local air, water, or noise quality.
Conclusion: The Future Is Already Green
Each of these 30 sectors is doing more than just protecting the planet — they’re reshaping the global economy. Green innovation isn’t a side project anymore; it’s the main event. Whether you’re a founder, investor, developer, or service provider, now is the time to find your place in the green economy.
