Global:

China Topped USA in Renewable Energy Investment in 2011 (USA Today)

China was responsible for almost a fifth of the total investment volume, spending $52 billion on renewable energy last year. The United States was close behind with investments of $51 billion, as developers sought to benefit from government incentive programs before they expired. Germany, Italy and India rounded out the top five.

It noted that developing countries are also exploring the use of renewable energy other than hydropower, which has long been a popular source in poor countries.

Nations in East Africa are seeking to take advantage of abundant geothermal capacity in the Rift Valley. Kenya aims to meet half of its electricity needs with geothermal power by 2018. Djibouti, Eritrea, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda are also exploring geothermal use. Global Trends in Renewable Energy Investment 2012 (PDF)

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