"UK Cleantech Startups: The Underdogs We Keep Ignoring (And Wondering Why We Can't Win)"

There's an African proverb that says, "The early bird catches the worm." This proverb means that those who act quickly and decisively are more likely to succeed in their endeavors. In the context of a missed opportunity, this proverb can be applied to emphasize the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. If you hesitate or delay, you may miss out on the chance to achieve your goals. In other words, if you're not the early bird, someone else may catch the worm that could have been yours.

This analogy holds true for UK cleantech startups, which could represent a missed opportunity for investors who hesitate to invest. The cleantech sector is one area where action is needed, and the rewards are enormous. The global landscape of renewable energy finance is evolving rapidly, driven by a combination of technological innovation, shifting political priorities, and growing investor demand for sustainable investments.

In the case of UK cleantech startups, investors and energy companies may be missing out on a significant opportunity by hesitating to invest. With supportive government policies, increasing investor demand for sustainable investments, and innovative start-ups developing new technologies and solutions, the UK's cleantech sector is well-positioned to continue leading the way in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Over the past few years, the UK's cleantech sector has experienced tremendous growth, with several successful start-ups reporting significant increases in valuation and monthly recurring revenue (MRR). One such example is Bulb, a renewable energy supplier founded in 2015, which offers 100% renewable electricity and gas to homes and businesses. Since its inception, Bulb has grown at an impressive rate, attracting significant investment. Its latest funding round in 2021 valued the company at ￡2.3 billion. In addition to its impressive valuation, Bulb has also reported strong revenue growth, with MRR increasing from ￡1 million in 2017 to ￡100 million in 2021.

Other notable UK cleantech start-ups include Octopus Energy, which achieved unicorn status in 2021 with a valuation of over ￡1 billion, and Arrival, a company that designs and manufactures electric vehicles (EVs) and is valued at over ￡8 billion after going public in March 2021. Arrival has partnered with major automakers, such as Hyundai and Uber, and has also teamed up with UPS to supply the logistics giant with electric delivery vans. Arrival's MRR has grown rapidly, increasing from ￡100,000 in 2018 to ￡1 million in 2021.

Despite the potential for growth and investment in the UK's cleantech sector, many investors may be missing out on lucrative opportunities by not investing in these promising start-ups. As the world moves toward more sustainable energy solutions, cleantech start-ups have the potential to drive significant returns for investors. By supporting these companies and investing in their growth, investors have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while also generating returns. While there may be challenges and uncertainties facing the cleantech sector, the potential rewards of investing in these promising start-ups are substantial.

Therefore, it may be wise for UK investors to take a closer look at the cleantech sector and consider the opportunities it presents.