Outlook 2013: Spotlight on Stockholm cleantech

A positive momentum and large international interest means hectic year for promoters of the Stockholm cleantech sector.

"Stockholm is at the forefront when it comes to technical expertise compared to other countries and cities" said Janey Mehks, the head of Stockholm Business Region Development's cleantech division. "You'll find good conditions for business growth here."

Together with participating companies, Stockholm Business Region Development plans to take part in a number of national and global events and conferences this year that will highlight technical advancements and business opportunities.

In May, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development will present its flagship Green Cities report at a conference in Stockholm. The organisation has studied how green development in urban areas and environmental policies can improve economic performance and environmental quality in cities. Stockholm and three other cities are part of the program.

Interest in cleantech technology is also increasing in China. In March, a conference called China-Nordic Cleantech Bridge will be held in Hong Kong where Nordic cleantech companies will be given the opportunity to present to Chinese investors.

Following that in April, Stockholm Business Region will participate at the Cleantech Forum Europe in Bilbao, Spain. It's a matchmaking event for investors, entrepreneurs, innovators, technologists and industrial leaders.

For participating companies, these events could potentially lead to new investor and partner contacts.

Adding to the good news for Swedish cleantech is the development of  Norra Djurgårdsstaden, a large area of central Stockholm that is undergoing brownfield redevelopment as part of the Clinton Climate Initiative.

"The project is extremely climate smart and sustainable. It resembles the famous Hammarby Sjöstad project, but now we take it one step further," Mehks said.

Stockholm has excellent green credentials, having been designated the European Green Capital in 2010.