The alternative energy industry has surged onto the scene over the past few years, growing from a tiny market segment to a ubiquitous industry.

Once on the sidelines, cleantech is now a marketing and social magnet. Companies and factories are going green. So are homes and individuals. Cars are now eco-friendly.

The use of renewable energy is not only doubling and tripling, it's being forced to grow by the government. Well over half the states have laws that mandate the use of renewable energy must expand several times over. A bill currently circling Congress would do the same for the entire country, as well as put a cap on carbon emissions.

Of course, the adoption of the smart grid and energy efficiency is marching right in step.

And I'm not just talking about the U.S. I'm talking about the entire world. Even countries you've never heard of have renewable energy targets.

With so much happening so quickly, I figured it was time to offer a green report card of sorts.  And as a Green Chip Review member, you can access this report - absolutely free - right here: http://www.greenchipstocks.com/report/alternative-energy-a-2009-report-card/449.

Nick