Credit Suisse announced today that it is significantly expanding research coverage of the alternative energy sector.

The firm notes that the theme of alternative energy encompasses important developments in political, social and economic spheres and has potentially serious implications for many other sectors. Credit Suisse has, for some time, covered the sector, but it is now promising research that will be presented with greater depth and a more global view.

The effort is to be led by Mark Flannery and Edward Westlake. Flannery, is a managing director and head of global energy research at Credit Suisse. He is currently based in New York, after serving in similar roles for Credit Suisse in Hong Kong and London. Flannery currently covers the large integrated oil companies and the independent refining sector in the U.S. Westlake is a managing director and co-head of the European energy research team in London.

“I see this as an important first step in Credit Suisse’s effort to supplement our client-centric product offering with thematic Equity Research on some of the most pressing global issues of the day,” says Stefano Natella, global head of equity research.

“Mark and Ed’s vast experience uniquely qualifies them as leaders for this global alternative energy research effort. Furthermore, coverage of alternative energy is in line with Credit Suisse’s strategy in equity research – to build the most profitable, intelligence-based department who delivers the best ideas to targeted clients,” adds Natella.