Australian venture capitalist invests in Cleantech 21 September 2010 Lend Lease’s Venture Capital Business is Australia’s largest dedicated cleantech investor. It invests in commercially viable growth companies operating in the energy, water and building sectors. Lend Lease’s cleantech venture capital portfolio currently includes organisations such as Windlab Systems, a global wind energy development company; BioPower Systems, which commercialises ocean power conversion technologies through the development of proprietary wave and tidal power systems; and WJP Solutions, a specialist in wastewater reuse and water treatment for commercial buildings. Anthony Pascoe, Group Head of Venture Capital, Lend Lease, said that his business was borne out of the Lend Lease group’s well recognised commitment to sustainability and in recognition of strong prospects for the clean technology sector. “Consumer and business community mindsets are generally incredibly supportive of the cleantech revolution and there is more attention being given to commercially viable solutions than ever before,” Mr Pascoe said. He added that one area of focus for his venture capital business is finding new investment opportunities in energy management and green refurbishment of existing buildings. “There is a significant market, both globally and locally, for green-retrofits and for smart energy management solutions,” he said. Recent research into energy use reported by the Council of Australian Governments’ National Strategy on Energy Efficiency has verified that commercial buildings account for approximately ten per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. More information |