The Future Is Clean: Why Carlsbad Is a Launchpad for Climate Tech Startups

Carlsbad blends cutting-edge innovation with some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. It’s no wonder our city leads the way in clean technology—a field focused on reducing environmental impact through products and services that prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability.

Our city offers the perfect mix of people, place and purpose to make a difference in clean tech. Environmental sustainability is a priority for the City of Carlsbad, which supports community efforts to reduce litter, protect natural resources and improve air quality. This commitment extends to our business community. The city’s Green Business Program supports small startups to major companies in their efforts to be good stewards for the environment and operate sustainably.

Carlsbad is home to impressive talent for cleantech companies. Over 34% of our residents have a bachelor’s degree and nearly 29% have a graduate or professional degree. Our thriving tech cluster attracts highly skilled technologists, delivering the expertise and brainpower that fuel innovation in clean technology.

These strengths give Carlsbad a solid foundation for the clean tech industry to thrive. Now, let’s highlight a few of our local clean tech businesses to see this innovation in action.

• mPower Technology creates solar cell technology that powers space missions. The company, which has a regional office located in Carlsbad, has raised over $46 million. mPower’s product DragonSCALES™ is described as “the world’s most advanced ultra-light, ultra-adaptable silicon solar cell solution.”
• Smartville focuses on sustainability through the reuse of EV batteries, unlocking the value of electric vehicle batteries after their intended use. EVs provide environmental benefits, but as they age or if an EV is no longer working, their batteries may be able to be recycled. Smartville develops options to repurpose these batteries into clean backup power units for buildings. The company also has created a portable tool that can provide auto recyclers, resellers and others insights into battery health on damaged vehicles.
• Calsense has designed irrigation control systems for over three decades. The company serves governments, schools, neighborhoods and more in an effort to conserve water. Calsense pairs smart technology with education and partnerships to accomplish its mission.

These companies represent just a glimpse of the innovative clean tech work happening in Carlsbad. Our expanding clean tech cluster creates exciting business opportunities and meaningful careers for technologists dedicated to building a sustainable future. It also reflects our city’s unique balance between cutting-edge development and environmental stewardship.

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