In challenging times, it is nice to hear some positive stories of companies that are doing well by doing good.  Our colleague fund, Investeco, recently reported that EnerWorks, a holding in their Second Private Equity Fund, is building substantial momentum. EnerWorks develops and manufactures proprietary renewable energy appliances for residential, commercial and industrial markets. In the residential market, EnerWorks’s solar water heating appliances are fully certified, ENERGY STAR® qualified, and the only system meeting CSA international standards. They complement existing water-heating systems and provide users with clean energy and a real reduction in energy costs. In the commercial and industrial markets, EnerWorks is at the forefront of integrated solar thermal solutions, working with local partners to design, install, commission and maintain solar thermal heating and cooling systems.

The current state of the capital markets and the U.S. financial system have left many investors paralyzed in fear, but this community, like us at Renewal, is choosing hope over fear.  Hope that these times will inspire us to invest smarter and with a broader purpose than just having money make more money.

Michael Jantzi, founder of Renewal Investee Janzti Research, was recently featured in an article called  "Green Alpha," discussing how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues have lead to a redefining of fiduciary responsibility.  Michael says, "You're seeing mainstream money managers, especially at the largest pension plans, accept ESG as party of their fiduciary responsibility."