Clean-tech conference puts spotlight on investment in energy sector

New Jersey’s first business- and investor-focused clean technology conference took place today at the Woodbridge Hilton, in the Iselin section of the township.

New Jersey’s first business- and investor-focused clean technology conference took place today at the Woodbridge Hilton, in the Iselin section of the township.

The event, Cleantech NJ 2011, brought together senior executives from the state’s clean technology and energy companies, along with government policymakers and regulators, investors, professional service firms, and environmental activists.

The keynote speakers were Caren Franzini, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and Mary Beth Brenner, assistant director of the Division of Economic Development and Energy Policy for the Board of Public Utilities.

New Jersey has established itself as a leader in the solar industry, and clean technology has become one of its most vital business sectors. According to a recent study by the Brookings Institution, there were 94,241 clean-technology jobs in the state in 2010, ranking New Jersey No. 8 in the nation in clean-job creation.

The event examined how the state can continue to grow in the areas of solar and wind technology, as well as alternative fuels. It focused on the future of New Jersey’s renewable-energy sector, policy initiatives, financial incentives and how the industry could be affected by changes in market conditions.