It’s no surprise that oil and coal companies are having a banner year. Earthquakes in Japan and revolutions in Africa have oil riding a profitable wave of instability. The Wall Street Journal noted that rising gas prices are a boon to oil companies even as costs pinch consumers.

Fortunately there are plenty of energy innovators waiting in the wings, and high gas prices open up unique opportunities for renewable energy small businesses and research institutions. Planet Forward has been highlighting the best innovations from individuals and clean energy companies, and our members are helping select the best new idea for our Planet Forward special on PBS this month.

But we’re not waiting to see what some of the leaders of