The use of crowdfunding to support green energy innovations: overview of practices
and diagnosis of barriers and opportunities Cover Image

Zastosowanie crowdfundingu we wspieraniu innowacji w dziedzinie zielonej energii: przegląd praktyk oraz diagnoza potencjału i barier
The use of crowdfunding to support green energy innovations: overview of practices and diagnosis of barriers and opportunities

Author(s): Agata Stasik
Subject(s): Education and training
Published by: Szkoła Główna Handlowa w Warszawie, Fundacja Promocji i Akredytacji Kierunków Ekonomicznych

Summary/Abstract: For almost a decade, crowdfunding has been developing dynamically all around the world. However, the impact of this financialtechnology innovation in specific areas of social and entrepreneurial activity is still under-investigated. This article reviews themultiple uses of crowdfunding for support of innovation in the area of green, i.e., sustainable and renewable energy, and energyefficacy. Basing on exploratory study composed of the review of academic and industry literature, analysis of data available oncrowdfunding platforms, as well as observations and interviews conducted during industry events, the author presents the mostpopular models of crowdfunding applied in the area of green energy. The study shows that two models are particularly widespread.First, intervention in the earlier stage of demonstration/niche market formulation through the reward-based platforms– Kickstarter and alike. Second, use of highly specialized crowd-investing (loan or equity-based) platforms for the diffusion ofmature technologies. After reviewing most popular models of platforms and projects’ dynamics, the author analyses the potentialand obstacles for broader use of crowdfunding for the support of innovation in green energy sector in the context of broaderparticipation in energy transition.

  • Issue Year: 73/2018
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 54-62
  • Page Count: 9
  • Language: Polish