The renewable energy industry in the United States is rapidly evolving, focusing on sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal power. Various companies operate here, including startups innovating in technology and established firms transitioning from traditional practices. The sector is poised for growth, driven by technological advancements and increasing policy support. Notable statistics highlight this push: renewable energy sources accounted for nearly 20% of the country’s electricity generation in 2024, illustrating a general trend toward greener energy production, with costs for renewables continually decreasing.


The investors featured in this list encompass a range of types, including venture capital, corporate entities, and government organizations. They hail from notable hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Washington, D.C. Spanning various sizes, these firms have engaged heavily in the sector, boasting 2024 investment counts that range from 17 to 802. Established as early as 1956, many investors are relatively new, founded within the last decade, showcasing a mix of experience and fresh perspectives in renewable energy investing.


Top 14 Renewable Energy Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, located in Washington, D.C. It is responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. The DOE serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In recent years, the DOE has been actively involved in the renewable energy sector, providing substantial grants to various companies and organizations. For instance, in 2024, the DOE granted $100 million to Ørsted, a leader in offshore wind energy, and $700 million to Allete, which focuses on renewable energy solutions. Additionally, the DOE supported Bergey Windpower Co., LLC with a grant of $178,984, further emphasizing its role in promoting renewable energy technologies. The DOE also provided funding to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, showcasing its commitment to research and development in the renewable energy field.


2. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the renewable energy sector are Helion Energy, which focuses on nuclear fusion technology, and Oolu, a solar energy startup operating in Senegal and Mali. These investments reflect Y Combinator's engagement in the renewable energy landscape, supporting innovative solutions aimed at addressing global energy challenges.


3. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, SOSV connects innovative companies with investors, providing not only venture capital investment but also essential resources to help startups grow and succeed. In 2024 alone, SOSV has made 170 investments, showcasing their active role in the startup ecosystem. Notably, they have invested in renewable energy companies such as Solano Energy, which raised funds in a Pre-Seed round in February 2023, and Altiro Energy, which secured funding in a Seed round in October 2023. These transactions highlight SOSV's commitment to supporting the renewable energy sector alongside their broader investment strategy.


4. IFC - International Finance Corporation

  • Website: ifc.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development. In recent years, IFC has been actively involved in the renewable energy sector, exemplified by its financing arrangements for projects such as a 55-MW solar project with battery storage proposed by Voltalia in Malawi. Additionally, IFC has participated in significant debt transactions with major energy companies like Iberdrola, Engie, and ACCIONA, which are recognized for their contributions to renewable energy. These activities highlight IFC's role in fostering economic growth while supporting sustainable energy initiatives.


5. Breakthrough Energy


Breakthrough Energy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2015, based in Kirkland, Washington, dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy. They support innovative technologies and advocate for policies that promote clean energy solutions. Their clientele includes businesses and organizations in the clean energy sector seeking funding, research support, and policy advocacy to address climate change. Notably, Breakthrough Energy has been involved in several significant transactions in the renewable energy space, including a $9 million investment in Arnergy, a Nigerian startup that aims to provide clean solar energy to 35,000 SMEs in Nigeria. They also participated in a $135 million funding round for Fervo Energy, a geothermal power startup, which is working on developing power plants across multiple states. These transactions highlight Breakthrough Energy's active role in fostering renewable energy initiatives and their commitment to supporting the transition to sustainable energy solutions.


6. Elemental Impact


Elemental Impact is a not-for-profit organization based in Honolulu, Hawaii, founded in 2012. Their mission is to scale climate technologies with a strong emphasis on community impact. They provide funding opportunities, community engagement strategies, and educational resources to support climate technology companies and local governments in deploying sustainable solutions. Notably, Elemental Impact has been involved in several significant transactions in the renewable energy sector, including investments in Heliogen, a company focused on solar energy technology, and Stem, which specializes in energy storage and management solutions. Additionally, they have supported Fervo Energy, a company that develops geothermal energy technologies. These transactions highlight Elemental Impact's commitment to fostering partnerships and enhancing community benefits through renewable energy initiatives.


7. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the context of renewable energy, the Government of Canada has been involved in several significant transactions, including grants to Eocycle, Ballard Power Systems, and Novus Earth, among others. These investments demonstrate the government's role in supporting the development of renewable energy technologies and initiatives, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the energy sector.


8. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in notable transactions in the renewable energy space, including investments in Bloom Energy, which raised significant funding in 2015 and 2016 for its clean energy solutions, and Mainspring Energy, which raised $95 million in 2021 for its innovative energy technologies. Additionally, the fund has shown interest in companies like Arcadia, which focuses on empowering companies to monitor and act on their carbon impact, further highlighting its engagement in the renewable energy sector.


9. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2024, they have made 253 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in several companies relevant to the renewable energy sector, including Solar Analytics, which raised $4.75 million in Series B funding, and Geli, which raised an undisclosed amount in Series A. Their involvement with companies like Green Independence and Power Finance Corporation further highlights their engagement in the renewable energy space, making them a significant player in this industry.


10. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR provides asset management solutions to institutional investors and individual clients, helping them navigate complex investment landscapes. The firm has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector, with notable transactions including a $450 million investment in Hero Future Energies, aimed at expanding its renewable energy capabilities across various technologies. KKR also acquired an 11.9% stake in First Gen Corporation, a major power producer in the Philippines, enhancing their presence in Asian infrastructure. Furthermore, KKR's recent acquisition of Origis Energy for $300 million underscores their commitment to developing solar and storage projects. These investments reflect KKR's strategic focus on supporting the growth of renewable energy initiatives globally.


11. Goldman Sachs

  • Website: goldmansachs.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 59
  • LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, New York, founded in 1998. It offers a wide range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In recent years, Goldman Sachs has shown a notable interest in the renewable energy sector, participating in significant transactions such as the $1 billion debt financing for ENGIE North America in February 2024 and a $935 million post-IPO debt raise for Iberdrola in July 2023. Additionally, the firm has invested in ReNew Power, contributing $50 million in equity funding in a round that raised a total of $265 million. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' active role in supporting renewable energy projects and companies, reinforcing its position as a relevant investor in this industry.


12. MassVentures

  • Website: mass-ventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Waltham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: massventures

MassVentures is a venture studio based in Waltham, Massachusetts, founded in 1978. It supports early-stage companies, particularly in deep tech innovation, by offering a range of funding options, including venture capital and grants, along with business guidance and accelerator programs. In recent years, MassVentures has been involved in several transactions that highlight its interest in renewable energy-related technologies. For example, they led a $2.1 million Pre-Seed round for florrent, a company focused on advanced materials for cylindrical cells, which are essential for energy storage solutions. Additionally, they have provided grants to companies like PowerHouse and Solablock, which are likely engaged in projects that could contribute to renewable energy advancements. This combination of funding activities demonstrates MassVentures' commitment to fostering innovation that can impact the renewable energy landscape.


13. Chevron

  • Website: chevron.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: chevron

Chevron Corporation is an energy company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in oil and natural gas exploration, production, and distribution. Founded in 1999, Chevron operates globally and is committed to sustainable practices to meet the world's energy demands. In addition to its core business, Chevron has made significant investments in renewable energy solutions and carbon capture technologies. Notably, Chevron acquired Renewable Energy Group in February 2022 for $3.15 billion, enhancing its capabilities in biofuels and renewable energy. Furthermore, Chevron has invested in BrightSource Energy, a company focused on solar energy, raising substantial funds across multiple rounds from 2008 to 2012. Chevron's investment in Eavor, a geothermal energy company, further illustrates its commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio and supporting innovative renewable energy technologies.


14. Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator


The Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2011, dedicated to fostering an inclusive green economy. Based in Los Angeles, California, LACI supports cleantech startups through various programs, including business acceleration and funding opportunities, while also providing workforce development initiatives aimed at underrepresented groups. LACI operates primarily in the cleantech sector, focusing on sustainable technologies and practices. Notably, LACI has been involved in several relevant transactions, including investments in companies like CZAR-Power and Ashipa Electric, both of which are engaged in innovative energy solutions. Additionally, their support for Pick My Solar, a platform that connects consumers with solar energy options, further emphasizes their commitment to renewable energy initiatives. Through these investments, LACI plays a significant role in advancing the renewable energy landscape.



Renewable Energy Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
Breakthrough EnergyKirkland, Washington, United States (USA)51-200201538
Elemental ImpactHonolulu, Hawaii, United States (USA)51-200201219
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
MassVenturesWaltham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)1-10197828
ChevronHouston, Texas, United States (USA)10001+199916
Los Angeles Cleantech IncubatorLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-20020112


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