Green energy investment has been a hot topic for over 10 years now. With the potential for global stimulus in the trillions of dollars, the growth in renewable energy stocks is something many investors are eagerly anticipating.
But many people have been reluctant to add to their personal portfolio of the usual bank and finance stocks because of concerns that they could become investors in companies that are too speculative and unstable.
This is why I’ve decided to list out the 10 biggest green energy and technologies stocks to show you the investment potential that large and established global companies have.
Top 10 Renewable Energy Stocks (2022)
While not all of these stocks are American companies, they all trade on a U.S. stock exchange, readily available for U.S. investors.
I have listed them in order of total value as of Q1 2022, along with the current key financial information of each company.
1. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
It’s a common misconception that Tesla Inc. is just an electric vehicle company. While it does operate in the car industry, it has become popular with growth stock investors because it’s one of the few large companies involved in electricity storage through batteries.
Elon Musk has even been in the news stating that he’s developing solar panels in the shape of roof tiles.
So there are a lot more projects that this company plans to expand into.
Tesla unveiled plans to develop a “tabless” battery that could improve an electric car’s range and power. The company will produce its new batteries in-house, which Tesla CEO Elon Musk predicts will help dramatically reduce costs and allow the company to eventually sell electric vehicles for the same price as gasoline-powered ones.
Andrew Hawkins, Writer at The Verge
2. Pacific Gas & Electric Co (NYSE:PCG)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Pacific Gas & Electric is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and the utility company has taken one of the largest shifts towards renewable energy production.
With a growing solar and wind energy production capacity, the company also offers customers to receive only renewable energy. They also provide services to allow private and corporate customers to install their own solar power generation.
And if you’ve taken the steps towards upgrading to a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle, then PG&E can get you set up with a designated charging point.
Overall, less than 20% of the company’s energy production is associated with carbon emissions, and those are tied to a few smaller natural gas power plants. The rest is hydroelectric, nuclear, and fully renewable.
3. NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
As the world’s biggest clean energy producer with a variety of clean power plants, NextEra is still one of the fastest-growing suppliers to U.S. utility providers.
NextEra Energy is also among the biggest companies when it comes to planned investments to increase their electricity-generating services. Over the next two years, the company plans to spend over $50 billion to expand its solar and wind power output.
This is on top of the already large operations that cover 48 states since last year.
NextEra Energy is also one of the most open and honest when it comes to publishing data about the impact of its operations on the environment. The corporate responsibility approach focuses on carefully tracking all emissions by business units.
It’s another great way to gain exposure to established large-cap energy stocks.
4. General Electric Company (NYSE:GE)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
GE has been very active in the renewable energy sector, and the company has taken major steps to move away from fossil fuels.
They have a large portfolio of industrial energy production products that include solar, wind, and hydropower turbines. These products are used all over the world, and GE is regularly announcing new contracts with utility companies across the U.S. and worldwide.
The result is over 400 GW of renewable energy production, including almost 50 thousand wind turbines. That makes it one of the top green energy stocks to gain exposure to large-scale production and huge revenue growth potential.
5. Enphase Energy, Inc (NASDAQ:ENPH)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Enphase Energy was founded in 2006 with the specific goal of innovating and disrupting the solar energy market. The company has specialized in making microinverters that are scalable and compatible with the majority of different solar panels.
In the short history of this green energy company, it has managed to distribute over 40 million microinverters to over 130 countries. That is an incredible revenue growth trajectory that is likely to increase with the increasing demand from private and business customers to have solar panels installed.
If you want to invest in solar energy stocks to promote a renewable energy transition, then you should definitely consider Enphase for your portfolio.
6. Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTC:VWDRY)
Fundamental Value Factors | |
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Most of the clean energy stocks listed above involve the production and storage of clean energy. But Vestas is a great company to gain direct exposure to wind energy technology.
The services offered directly to utility companies and electricity producers include the installation and maintenance of large-scale wind farms. The company has specialized in both on and offshore wind farm installations and is a top component of many clean energy ETF products.
The Danish company has also been a leader in the green energy sector as they have become the leading clean energy company when it comes to increasing the production capabilities of individual wind turbines.
Some of their advanced systems can produce up to 4 MW, which is likely to become the most in-demand clean energy solution putting it on a path to record quarterly revenue.
7. First Solar, Inc (NASDAQ:FSLR)
Fundamental Value Factors | |
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
First Solar is a relatively young American company established in 2001. The specialist maker of solar panels is also practicing what it preaches.
With an ambitious goal of powering all office and manufacturing facilities with solar energy by 2028, it has become a leader in sustainability and innovation.
Unlike other solar technology companies, First Solar has taken the approach of both manufacturing solar panels and offering full services for installation and maintenance to private and commercial customers.
With a growing number of customers, especially in the commercial side of its business, there is huge potential for revenue growth in the coming years as more businesses try to combat rising energy prices.
It’s definitely one of the clean energy stocks to keep an eye on.
8. Sunpower Corporation (NASDAQ:SPWR)
Fundamental Value Factors | |
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Sunpower is a company from Silicon Valley that started creating solar panels and energy storage solutions as far back as the 1980s. In addition to being a leading green energy and sustainability-driven company, it’s also guided by a strong principle of social and community responsibility.
In the past 40 years, Sunpower has also been awarded over 1,000 patents, which makes it one of the most innovative clean energy stocks you could possibly invest in.
Residential and commercial customers have access to full solar energy solutions that include panels, storage, and installation with some of the most advanced and efficient technology available.
9. Fuelcell Energy, Inc (NASDAQ:FCEL)
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Fuelcell Energy is a great option to gain exposure to alternative energy production technology. Rather than focus on solar and wind energy, this company focuses on creating hydrogen fuel cells for industrial-scale use.
While this is a technology that hasn’t fully developed into large-scale distribution, technical advances have made this company one of the leading clean energy stocks in this niche sector.
By creating ready-to-use and installed systems for industrial use, this company is also in a great position to achieve scalable revenue growth as more utility companies start diversifying their renewable energy portfolios.
If you want to invest in future technology that has incredible potential, then Fuelcell should be a top consideration.
10. Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (OTC:GCTAY)
Fundamental Value Factors | |
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*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Another way to gain direct exposure to the technology behind renewable electricity this year comes by investing in green energy stocks with Siemens Gamesa.
This is a European growth stock available on US markets, and the organization heavily invests in research and development to lead the way in creating sustainable technology solutions for the future.
Investing in green and clean stocks comes with a moral benefit, knowing that you’re helping new services and technologies grow to a size where they achieve huge economies of scale.
By investing in Siemens, you’ll also have the peace of mind that you’re gaining exposure to an industrial giant in Germany with a long track record of exceptional quality manufacturing standards.
Why Invest in Renewable Energy Stocks?
Many people look at the past performance of renewable energy stocks and the media attention they have received, but they don’t fully understand why investing in this sector and services has gained so much attention.
Here are the 4 main reasons why I believe this sector should be part of investors' strategies this year.
1. Take Advantage of Growth Opportunities
The term growth stock is often used in finance to highlight a company with positive cash flow and higher expectations for future revenue compared to other companies in the sector.
Not only does investing in certain green technology and energy stocks in the U.S. stock exchange provide the opportunity for larger than average growth, but the entire wind utilities, solar power, and electricity storage business is outgrowing all other industries.
And renewable energy industries don’t just provide an opportunity for growing your investment fund — they can supply you with income as well, so let’s look at that next.
2. Gain Access to Regular Income
Watching portfolios or a fund grow from year to year certainly helps you become content that you’re securing your future.
But note that investing your money should also provide you with an income every quarter in the form of dividends.
Fortunately, there are many utilities and high-tech companies around the world that currently offer a good dividend yield with a solid past record of increasing those payments.
That means you’ll be growing your investments every year and releasing some money that you may want to invest in other new opportunities around the world.
3. Balance Your Personal Portfolio
Next, investing in the green industry is one of the best ways to make sure you’re not overexposed to certain sectors.
Diversity is the best way to protect yourself from sudden crashes in one area. But many people have spent the past years investing in bank, finance, and computer technology stocks while missing the largest industry development since the Internet boom of the 90s.
4. Ensure a Green Future With Clean Energy Stocks
Finally, investing in green and clean stocks comes with a moral benefit, knowing that you’re helping new services and technologies grow to a size where they achieve huge economies of scale.
The faster these companies can help the world switch to renewable sources of electricity, the more positive of an impact you will have on climate change.
FAQ
Is renewable energy a good investment?
Yes, renewable energy is a good investment for a personal portfolio. They provide both growth and income potential, and many analysts believe this sector is still in its infancy.
Can you invest in renewable energy?
Yes, you can invest in renewable energy stocks. This allows you to gain exposure to technology, production, and distribution, and it’s one of the best ways to diversify a share account.
Who is the biggest renewable energy company?
Tesla Inc is the biggest renewable energy company because of its heavy exposure to battery technology, according to some analysts. From an energy production perspective, NextEra has become the largest clean power producer since last year.
Is renewable energy profitable?
Yes, renewable energy stocks are profitable from a growth and income perspective. There are established organizations with a long track record of high dividend yields, as well as new companies that may come with huge growth potential.
Final Thoughts
If your personal portfolio doesn’t have at least some exposure to clean energy, then at the very least, you could have a need to ensure you’re properly diversified and balanced.
All of the above stocks provide great exposure with established organizations and a long track record of success.
I highly recommend that you use this list as the basis for your own analysis and research into other articles and publications before making any investments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the writer's own experiences and personal opinion and does not constitute professional financial investment advice. GreenCitizen recommends that you conduct your own independent research or seek the services of a qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
Business & Policies
10 Most Promising Renewable Energy Stocks
Written by : Chris Bolt, Updated by: Samira Tasneem | Last Updated: March 19, 2024
Contents
Some investors have concerns over the renewable energy sector due to so many new companies with no track record, so we put together a list of 10 green stocks with established businesses and earnings.
Green energy investment has been a hot topic for over 10 years now. With the potential for global stimulus in the trillions of dollars, the growth in renewable energy stocks is something many investors are eagerly anticipating.
But many people have been reluctant to add to their personal portfolio of the usual bank and finance stocks because of concerns that they could become investors in companies that are too speculative and unstable.
This is why I’ve decided to list out the 10 biggest green energy and technologies stocks to show you the investment potential that large and established global companies have.
Top 10 Renewable Energy Stocks (2022)
While not all of these stocks are American companies, they all trade on a U.S. stock exchange, readily available for U.S. investors.
I have listed them in order of total value as of Q1 2022, along with the current key financial information of each company.
1. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$1.016 trillion
Revenue
$53.823 billion
Net Profit
$5.524 billion
Assets
$62.131 billion
Liabilities
$30.55 billion
Employees
99,290
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
It’s a common misconception that Tesla Inc. is just an electric vehicle company. While it does operate in the car industry, it has become popular with growth stock investors because it’s one of the few large companies involved in electricity storage through batteries.
Elon Musk has even been in the news stating that he’s developing solar panels in the shape of roof tiles.
So there are a lot more projects that this company plans to expand into.
Tesla unveiled plans to develop a “tabless” battery that could improve an electric car’s range and power. The company will produce its new batteries in-house, which Tesla CEO Elon Musk predicts will help dramatically reduce costs and allow the company to eventually sell electric vehicles for the same price as gasoline-powered ones.
Andrew Hawkins, Writer at The Verge
2. Pacific Gas & Electric Co (NYSE:PCG)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$30.913 billion
Revenue
$20.642 billion
Net Profit
- $88 million
Assets
$111.753 billion
Liabilities
$82.104 billion
Employees
26,000
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Pacific Gas & Electric is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and the utility company has taken one of the largest shifts towards renewable energy production.
With a growing solar and wind energy production capacity, the company also offers customers to receive only renewable energy. They also provide services to allow private and corporate customers to install their own solar power generation.
And if you’ve taken the steps towards upgrading to a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle, then PG&E can get you set up with a designated charging point.
Overall, less than 20% of the company’s energy production is associated with carbon emissions, and those are tied to a few smaller natural gas power plants. The rest is hydroelectric, nuclear, and fully renewable.
3. NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$164.714 billion
Revenue
$21.267 billion
Net Profit
$3.573 billion
Assets
$140.912 billion
Liabilities
$20.456 billion
Employees
15,000
Dividend Yield
2.0099%
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
As the world’s biggest clean energy producer with a variety of clean power plants, NextEra is still one of the fastest-growing suppliers to U.S. utility providers.
NextEra Energy is also among the biggest companies when it comes to planned investments to increase their electricity-generating services. Over the next two years, the company plans to spend over $50 billion to expand its solar and wind power output.
This is on top of the already large operations that cover 48 states since last year.
NextEra Energy is also one of the most open and honest when it comes to publishing data about the impact of its operations on the environment. The corporate responsibility approach focuses on carefully tracking all emissions by business units.
It’s another great way to gain exposure to established large-cap energy stocks.
4. General Electric Company (NYSE:GE)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$99.114 billion
Revenue
$74.174 billion
Net Profit
− $2.674 billion
Assets
$198.874 billion
Liabilities
$157.262 billion
Employees
168,000
Dividend Yield
0.36%
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
GE has been very active in the renewable energy sector, and the company has taken major steps to move away from fossil fuels.
They have a large portfolio of industrial energy production products that include solar, wind, and hydropower turbines. These products are used all over the world, and GE is regularly announcing new contracts with utility companies across the U.S. and worldwide.
The result is over 400 GW of renewable energy production, including almost 50 thousand wind turbines. That makes it one of the top green energy stocks to gain exposure to large-scale production and huge revenue growth potential.
5. Enphase Energy, Inc (NASDAQ:ENPH)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$24.929 billion
Revenue
$1.382 billion
Net Profit
$145.449 million
Assets
$2.079 billion
Liabilities
$1.649 billion
Employees
2,260
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Enphase Energy was founded in 2006 with the specific goal of innovating and disrupting the solar energy market. The company has specialized in making microinverters that are scalable and compatible with the majority of different solar panels.
In the short history of this green energy company, it has managed to distribute over 40 million microinverters to over 130 countries. That is an incredible revenue growth trajectory that is likely to increase with the increasing demand from private and business customers to have solar panels installed.
If you want to invest in solar energy stocks to promote a renewable energy transition, then you should definitely consider Enphase for your portfolio.
6. Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTC:VWDRY)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$31.066 billion
Revenue
$18.424 billion
Net Profit
$197.391 million
Assets
$22.416 billion
Liabilities
$16.788 billion
Employees
29,427
Dividend Yield
0.0117%
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Most of the clean energy stocks listed above involve the production and storage of clean energy. But Vestas is a great company to gain direct exposure to wind energy technology.
The services offered directly to utility companies and electricity producers include the installation and maintenance of large-scale wind farms. The company has specialized in both on and offshore wind farm installations and is a top component of many clean energy ETF products.
The Danish company has also been a leader in the green energy sector as they have become the leading clean energy company when it comes to increasing the production capabilities of individual wind turbines.
Some of their advanced systems can produce up to 4 MW, which is likely to become the most in-demand clean energy solution putting it on a path to record quarterly revenue.
7. First Solar, Inc (NASDAQ:FSLR)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$8.437 billion
Revenue
$2.923 billion
Net Profit
$468.693 million
Assets
$7.414 billion
Liabilities
$1.439 billion
Employees
4,800
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
First Solar is a relatively young American company established in 2001. The specialist maker of solar panels is also practicing what it preaches.
With an ambitious goal of powering all office and manufacturing facilities with solar energy by 2028, it has become a leader in sustainability and innovation.
Unlike other solar technology companies, First Solar has taken the approach of both manufacturing solar panels and offering full services for installation and maintenance to private and commercial customers.
With a growing number of customers, especially in the commercial side of its business, there is huge potential for revenue growth in the coming years as more businesses try to combat rising energy prices.
It’s definitely one of the clean energy stocks to keep an eye on.
8. Sunpower Corporation (NASDAQ:SPWR)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$3.717 billion
Revenue
$1.323 billion
Net Profit
− $37.358 million
Assets
$1.555 billion
Liabilities
$1.165 million
Employees
3,660
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Sunpower is a company from Silicon Valley that started creating solar panels and energy storage solutions as far back as the 1980s. In addition to being a leading green energy and sustainability-driven company, it’s also guided by a strong principle of social and community responsibility.
In the past 40 years, Sunpower has also been awarded over 1,000 patents, which makes it one of the most innovative clean energy stocks you could possibly invest in.
Residential and commercial customers have access to full solar energy solutions that include panels, storage, and installation with some of the most advanced and efficient technology available.
9. Fuelcell Energy, Inc (NASDAQ:FCEL)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$1.98 billion
Revenue
$69.585 million
Net Profit
− $101.055 million
Assets
$854.691 million
Liabilities
$182.65 million
Employees
382
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Fuelcell Energy is a great option to gain exposure to alternative energy production technology. Rather than focus on solar and wind energy, this company focuses on creating hydrogen fuel cells for industrial-scale use.
While this is a technology that hasn’t fully developed into large-scale distribution, technical advances have made this company one of the leading clean energy stocks in this niche sector.
By creating ready-to-use and installed systems for industrial use, this company is also in a great position to achieve scalable revenue growth as more utility companies start diversifying their renewable energy portfolios.
If you want to invest in future technology that has incredible potential, then Fuelcell should be a top consideration.
10. Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (OTC:GCTAY)
Fundamental Value Factors
Numeric Value
Market Cap
$11.711 billion
Revenue
$12.156 billion
Net Profit
− $748.822 million
Assets
$18.64 billion
Liabilities
$12.17 billion
Employees
26,182
Dividend Yield
n/a
*Numbers based on latest available April, 2022 financial data
Another way to gain direct exposure to the technology behind renewable electricity this year comes by investing in green energy stocks with Siemens Gamesa.
This is a European growth stock available on US markets, and the organization heavily invests in research and development to lead the way in creating sustainable technology solutions for the future.
Investing in green and clean stocks comes with a moral benefit, knowing that you’re helping new services and technologies grow to a size where they achieve huge economies of scale.
By investing in Siemens, you’ll also have the peace of mind that you’re gaining exposure to an industrial giant in Germany with a long track record of exceptional quality manufacturing standards.
Read More:
44 Of The World’s Most Ethical Companies (Updated 2022)
Why Invest in Renewable Energy Stocks?
Many people look at the past performance of renewable energy stocks and the media attention they have received, but they don’t fully understand why investing in this sector and services has gained so much attention.
Here are the 4 main reasons why I believe this sector should be part of investors' strategies this year.
1. Take Advantage of Growth Opportunities
The term growth stock is often used in finance to highlight a company with positive cash flow and higher expectations for future revenue compared to other companies in the sector.
Not only does investing in certain green technology and energy stocks in the U.S. stock exchange provide the opportunity for larger than average growth, but the entire wind utilities, solar power, and electricity storage business is outgrowing all other industries.
And renewable energy industries don’t just provide an opportunity for growing your investment fund — they can supply you with income as well, so let’s look at that next.
2. Gain Access to Regular Income
Watching portfolios or a fund grow from year to year certainly helps you become content that you’re securing your future.
But note that investing your money should also provide you with an income every quarter in the form of dividends.
Fortunately, there are many utilities and high-tech companies around the world that currently offer a good dividend yield with a solid past record of increasing those payments.
That means you’ll be growing your investments every year and releasing some money that you may want to invest in other new opportunities around the world.
3. Balance Your Personal Portfolio
Next, investing in the green industry is one of the best ways to make sure you’re not overexposed to certain sectors.
Diversity is the best way to protect yourself from sudden crashes in one area. But many people have spent the past years investing in bank, finance, and computer technology stocks while missing the largest industry development since the Internet boom of the 90s.
4. Ensure a Green Future With Clean Energy Stocks
Finally, investing in green and clean stocks comes with a moral benefit, knowing that you’re helping new services and technologies grow to a size where they achieve huge economies of scale.
The faster these companies can help the world switch to renewable sources of electricity, the more positive of an impact you will have on climate change.
Read More:
17 Green Companies That Are Doing Their Share for the Environment
FAQ
Is renewable energy a good investment?
Yes, renewable energy is a good investment for a personal portfolio. They provide both growth and income potential, and many analysts believe this sector is still in its infancy.
Can you invest in renewable energy?
Yes, you can invest in renewable energy stocks. This allows you to gain exposure to technology, production, and distribution, and it’s one of the best ways to diversify a share account.
Who is the biggest renewable energy company?
Tesla Inc is the biggest renewable energy company because of its heavy exposure to battery technology, according to some analysts. From an energy production perspective, NextEra has become the largest clean power producer since last year.
Is renewable energy profitable?
Yes, renewable energy stocks are profitable from a growth and income perspective. There are established organizations with a long track record of high dividend yields, as well as new companies that may come with huge growth potential.
Final Thoughts
If your personal portfolio doesn’t have at least some exposure to clean energy, then at the very least, you could have a need to ensure you’re properly diversified and balanced.
All of the above stocks provide great exposure with established organizations and a long track record of success.
I highly recommend that you use this list as the basis for your own analysis and research into other articles and publications before making any investments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the writer's own experiences and personal opinion and does not constitute professional financial investment advice. GreenCitizen recommends that you conduct your own independent research or seek the services of a qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
Chris Bolt
Chris is one of GreenCitizen’s writers who has been a long-time advocate of individual responsibility when it comes to the environment. He shares GreenCitizen's passion for making the world a better place every day of the year.
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