Cleanweb, a Great Opportunity for Massachusetts

On November 19, MassCEC hosted the first ever Boston Cleanweb Tech Night, bringing together seasoned cleantech and tech professionals and those interested in getting into the cleanweb sector to showcase exciting opportunities in cleanweb and cleantech.

The evening began with time for networking among a diverse crowd, including tech and cleantech professionals, local incubator staff, entrepreneurs, developers and some students.

Mintz Levin’s Tom Burton led a lively discussion with the three panelists: Chris Davis from Cimcon Lighting, Jamie Lefkowitz from OptiRTC, and Martin Flusberg from PowerHouseDynamics. Early discussion focused on leveraging the capabilities of big data to use existing infrastructure more efficiently. OptiRTC’s Jamie Lefkowitz in particular highlighted the use of data to take control of existing assets in order to make them more effective. In the case of water infrastructure, the efficient use of existing assets not only translates to greater savings, but it also leads to increased safety and resiliency.

All three panelists highlighted the economic advantages of using interconnected intelligent devices and data effectively. Chris Davis from Cimcon Lighting Inc. emphasized how optimizing streetlight repair with intelligent devices can provide major efficiency improvements and savings. Martin Flusberg, CEO of Powerhouse Dynamics stressed the importance of selling these economic benefits to potential customers and investors: “Restaurants are focused on making food and they aren’t as worried about energy, so it's hard to get them to try something new.”

The discussion concluded with a question about how to get started in the cleanweb sector. Martin jokingly responded, “Do it.” But the panelists went on to explain that Boston might be one of the best places to get involved. Massachusetts’ world-class research universities, established technology presence and strong innovation economy provide a number of great cleantech opportunities.

Special thanks to Tom Burton from Mintz Levin for moderating the event, and thank you to the three panelists, Chris Davis, Jamie Lefkowitz, and Martin Flusberg for providing interesting and enjoyable insight into the industry. Last but not least thank you to all those that attended! 

Make sure to join the Boston Cleanweb Meetup Group on Meetup.com to become aware of future events like the Boston Cleanweb Tech Night, and be on the lookout for more information about our annual Boston Cleanweb Hackathon coming this spring!