The UK has fallen from third place to thirteenth place in the green investment rankings

According to rankings published yesterday by The Pew Charitable Trust, Britain has significantly faltered in its push to be a major player in global renewable energy.

Britain’s 13th place means the UK is behind developing nations such as Brazil (6th) and India (10th).

Reports are suggesting that because of this topple down the rankings the UK could lose out on billions of pounds worth of renewable energy investments, that may now be invested in other countries higher up the list.

China came top of the list after investing heavily in low-carbon technologies, with Germany rising above the United States to claim 2nd place in the global green rankings.

The report estimates the worldwide total invested in clean energy last year reached a record £152 billion, the first time investment in renewable energy has been greater than in nuclear power.

The UK’s low ranking has been attributed to a 70% decline in low carbon technology investment, from £7 billion in 2009 to £2 billion in 2010. There are also claims that the UK government is at fault for not having enough clarity on clean energy policies.

Wind power continues to be the most popular technology for investment, with a worldwide investment total of around £60 billion last year.

The report comes before a cabinet meeting to discuss the UK climate change targets for 2020, which will take place in the coming months.