NASDAQ Clean Edge U.S. Liquid Series Index (CELS)

The NASDAQ Clean Edge U.S. Liquid Series Index (CELS) is an index of listed companies that are directly related to the clean energy business.

Starting out on the 17th November2006 at the level of 250.00 the CELS uses a market capitalization - weighted method. Companies that are considered eligible for this index are technology manufacturers, developers, distributors, and/or installers in one of the following sub-sectors:

• Advanced Materials (nanotech materials, advanced membranes, silicon-based materials and alternatives, bioplastics, etc. that enable clean-energy technologies and/or reduce the need for petroleum-based materials);
• Energy Intelligence (conservation, automated meter reading, energy management systems, smart grid, superconductors, power controls, etc.);
• Energy Storage and Conversion (advanced batteries, hybrid drivetrains, hydrogen, fuel cells for stationary, portable, and transportation applications, etc.);
• Renewable Electricity Generation and Renewable Fuels (solar photovoltiacs, concentrating solar, wind, geothermal, and ethanol, biodiesel, biofuel enabling enzymes, etc.)

There are also certain criteria about the size of the companies that are all outlined in this cleanedge.com.

The indexed securities that are included in the index are reviewed and updated twice a year in March and September, so keep a look out for opportunities to invest in up and coming companies.

If you wish to invest in this index then you can do so using an exchange-traded index fund. The First Trust NASDAQ® Clean Edge® Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN) is based on the CELS index and administered by First Trust Advisors L.P.

Alternatively, you can use this index as a starting point for further research into companies in the Clean Tech sector for inclusion in your own portfolio.