Attacks on clean energy test resolve of climate investors

Long term potential v short term pain

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(Mark Hulbert, an author and longtime investment columnist, is the founder of the Hulbert Financial Digest; his Hulbert Ratings audits investment newsletter returns.)

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (Callaway Climate Insights) — The stock market this year provides a litmus test for climate investors who claim to be serious about focusing their portfolios on the future of clean energy.

Many clean energy stocks have lost a lot over the past 12 months, even if many have partially rebounded in recent months. If you were more than a fair-weather friend to the environment, you’d view the price weakness as a golden opportunity not only to support these companies as they navigate a challenging political environment but also to buy at a discount the stocks that should soar over the coming decade.

Don’t you truly believe that global warming is only going to get worse, and that eventually everyone — including the drill, baby, drill crowd — will recognize the need to promote clean energy? If so, demand for the products and services provided by clean energy companies will inevitably soar over the long term.