Green energy patents jump 43% globally in 2017

More than 14,800 renewable energy patents were filed globally in 2017 – up by 43% from 2016, thanks to improving industry innovation and increasing incentivisation for R&D investment, according to new research by law firm EMW.

According to EMW, patents for solar power, wind energy, biofuels, hydropower, geothermal energy and waste-generated energy have doubled from the 7,700 seen in 2013. Solar power saw the most new developments, accounting for 56% of the total ‘green’ energy patents filed in 2017.

Leading the charge in green patenting is China, which filed 76% (11,300) of renewable energy patents in 2017 –  by far the most of any nation – while the US, in second place, filed 10% (1,500). China is currently the world's largest manufacturer of solar panel technology, and invested more than $44bn in clean energy projects in 2017. 

India and Australia ranked third and fourth on the survey, with 203 and 167 patents respectively.

James Geary, Principal at EMW, said: ‘The rising profitability of green energy has prompted many companies to invest in developing and patenting filings as innovation races ahead.’

He added: ‘More companies globally are now increasingly incentivised to invest in R&D. In addition, many companies are also now enthusiastic to highlight their green credentials in response to growing public and consumer awareness of environmental concerns.’

However, amid this growth, Geary warns that the US could face a drop in ‘green’ patents on products, as the Trump administration looks to cut government research spending on the energy industry.