In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.
Associations
Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.
BC Sustainable Energy Association | Check here for all the latest news related to alternative energy in British Columbia.
NW Energy Coalition | An alliance of more than 100 environmental, civic, and human service organizations, progressive utilities, and businesses in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Alaska and British Columbia. They promote development of renewable energy, energy conservation and low-income energy assistance, among other causes.
Climate Action Network Canada | A coalition of 100+ organizations across Canada dedicated to advancing policy and solutions to manage carbon pollution and fight climate change.
Canadian Renewable Energy Association | Advocates on behalf of the wind energy, solar energy and energy storage industries.
- The Canadian Renewable Energy Association also produces a blog, which provides industry updates and news items.
Clean Energy BC | Aims to provide cost-effective electricity for BC through responsible development of BC’s energy resources.
Canadian Geothermal Energy Association | A non-profit industry association aiming to accelerate Canadian exploration and development of geothermal resources.
Advanced Biofuels Canada | A national industry association dedicated to promoting the use of advanced biofuels.
Renewable Industries Canada | Represents members of the biofuels and clean renewable technology industries.
TIP: Use ASAE Gateway to Associations Directory to search for an association by name, interest area, or international geographic location (including Canada and BC). You can also search using a combination of various fields.
Magazines & Trade Journals
Trade journals (often called magazines or trade publications) can be very useful in helping you find current articles relating to business research. Contact your local research library to determine which trade journal subscriptions they have. There are also free trade publications that you can access online.
enerG Alternative Sources Magazine | A print/online magazine covering all areas of alternative energy including wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, and biofuels such as ethanol, with North American coverage. Published bi-monthly.
AltEnergyMag | This e-magazine provides global insight into the business world of alternative energy.
North American Clean Energy Magazine | A print/online magazine published bi-monthly; provides articles on a wide variety of clean energy sectors with a North American focus.
North American Windpower Magazine | An online, monthly publication that specializes in news related to the wind power sector.
Solar Energy Magazine | An online magazine dedicated to the solar power industry in North America.
TIP: Try searching Ulrichs Periodical Directory to develop a list of important trade publications in your industry.
Consultant & Other Websites
Renewable Energy World Blog | A blog connected to Renewable Energy World Magazine. Presents the latest news on renewable energy in a single easy-to-browse site.
Environmental Leader | Environmental Leader is the leading daily trade publication keeping corporate executives fully informed about energy, environmental and sustainability news. Their blog posts are written by industry experts and cover key business topics.
MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.
PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.
Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.
TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.